John Wesley Harding
Was a friend to the poor

He trav'led with a gun in ev'ry hand
All along this countryside
He opened a many a door

But he was never known
To hurt a honest man.


It was down in Chaynee County
A time they talk about
With his lady by his side

He took a stand
And soon the situation there
Was all but straightened out

For he was always known
To lend a helping hand.


All across the telegraph
His name it did resound
But no charge held against him

Could they prove
And there was no man around
Who could track or chain him down

He was never known
To make a foolish move.