I was born in east virginia

North carolina I did go.

There I met the fairest maiden

But her name I do not know.



Her hair it was a brightsome color

And her cheeks were rosy red.

On her breast she wore white lilies

All the tears that I have shed.



In my heart you are my darling

At my door you're welcome in.

At my gate I'll always meet you

If your love I could only win.



In the night I'm dreaming of you

In the day I find no rest.

Just the thought of youmy darling

Sends aching pains all through my breast.



I'd rather be in some dark holler

Where the sun refused to shine

Than to see you with another onedarling

To know you never will be mine.



Ohwhen I'm dead and in my coffin

With my face towards the sun

Come and look upon medarling

See the deed that you have done.