I am a lonesome hobo, Without family or friends Where another man's life might begin, That's exactly where mine ends I have tried my hand at bribery, Blackmail, and deceit And I've served time for everything, 'Cept begging on the street Well, once I was rather prosperous, There was nothing I did lack; I had fourteen carat gold in my mouth And silk upon my back But I did not trust my brother; I carried him to blame Which led me to my fated doom, To wander off in shame Kind ladies and kind gentlemen, Soon I will be gone Let me just warn you all, Before I do pass on: Stay free from petty jealousies, And live by no man's code, And hold your judgment for yourself, Lest you wind up on this road