Lily of the West

Cat. #0299 (MFH #367) - As sung by Mr. C. W. Ingenthron, Walnut Shade, Missouri on November 19, 1958

VERSE 1
When first I came to Louiesville
Some pleasure for to find
I spied a maid from Lexington
Quite pleasing to my mind
Her sparkling eyes and saucy cheeks
Like an arrow pierced my breast
They called her handsome Flory
Th lily of th west

VERSE 2
Her curly locks of yellow hair
In ringlets shown like hold
She had a ring on every finger
So handsome was she dressed
They called her handsome Flory
Th lily of th west

VERSE 3
One evening as I walked out down
By yon shady grove
I spied a man of low degree
Conversing with my love
He sung her a song of melody
Which so enraged my breast
He called her handsome Flory
Th lily of th west

VERSE 4
I stepped up to my rival
My dagger in my hand
I took him by th collar
And boldli bid him stand
I was mad to desperation
I swore I'd pierce his breast
Saying, go false hearted Flory
Th lily of th west

VERSE 5
In due time came my trial
I boldli made my plea
A flaw in the indictment
They said, would set me free
But she turned both judge and jury
So handsome was she dressed
They smiled on handsome Flory
Th lily of th west

VERSE 6
And now I am convicted
To prison, I must go
For five long years in Frankfurt
Which fills my heart with woe
She's robbed me of my liberty
Deprived me of my rest
I never can forgive her
Th lily of th west

Variants