The lightning express from the depot so grand

Had started out on its way

All of the passengers that gathered on board

Seemed to be happy and gay

But one little boy who sat by himself

Was reading a letter he had

You could plainly tell by the look on his face

That the contents of it made him sad



The stern old conductor then started his round

collecting tickets from everyone there

And finally reaching the side of the boy

He gruffly demanded his fare

"I have no ticket" the boy then replied

"But I'll pay you back someday"

"Then I'll put you off at the next stop we make"

But he stopped when he heard the boy say



"Please Mr. Conductor

Don't put me off of this train

The best friend I have in this world sir

Is waiting for me in pain

Expecting to die any moment sir

And may not live through the day

I wanna reach home and kiss mother goodbye

Before God takes her away"



A girl sitting near was heard to exclaim

"If you put him off, it's a shame"

Taking his hand, a collection she made

The boy's way was paid on the train

"I'm obliged to you miss for your kindness to me"

"You're welcome," she said, never fear

Each time the conductor would pass through the car

The boy's words would ring in his ear



"Please Mr. Conductor

Don't put me off of this train

The best friend I have in this world sir

Is waiting for me in pain

Expecting to die any moment sir

And may not live through the day

I wanna reach home and kiss mother goodbye

Before God takes her away"