When first unto this country a stranger I came I courted a fair maid, Nancy was her name Well, I courted her for love, but her love I couldn't obtain Do you think I've any reason or right to complain I rode to see my Nancy, I rode both day and night I rode for my Nancy, my own heart's true delight I rode to see my Nancy, I rode both night and day Till I came upon a grey horse Both complete and gay But the sheriff's men had followed and overtaken me And they carted me away to the penitentiary They beat me and they banged me, and they fed me on dry beans 'Til I wished to my own heart that I'd never been a thief With my hands all in my pockets and my cap set on so bold And my coat of many colors like Jacob's of old When first unto this country a stranger I came I courted a fair maid, Nancy was her name I courted her for love, but her love I couldn't obtain Do you think I've any reason or right to complain