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 many a door But he was never known To hurt an honest man
’Twas 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