I really can't stay (Betty, it's cold outside)
I've got to go away (Betty, it's cold out there)
This evening has been (been hoping that you'd drop in)
So very nice (I'll hold your hands, they're just like ice)
My mother will start to worry (beautiful, what's your hurry?)
And father will be pacing the floor (listen to that fireplace roar)
So really, I'd better scurry (beautiful, please, don't hurry)
Well, maybe just a half a drink more (why don't you put some records on while I pour?)
And the neighbors might think (Betty, it's bad out there)
Say, what's in this drink? (No cabs to be had out there)
I wish I knew how (your eyes are like starlight now)
To break this spell (I'll take your hat, your hair looks swell)
I ought to say, "No, no, no, sir" (mind if move in closer?)
At least I'm gonna say that I tried (what's the sense of hurting my pride?)
I really can't stay (baby, don't hold out)
Oh, but it's cold outside
♪
I simply must go (Betty, it's cold outside)
The answer is, "No" (I'll say it's cold out there)
The welcome has been (how lucky that you dropped in)
So nice and warm (look out that window, at that storm)
My sister will be suspicious (gosh, your lips look delicious)
My brother will be there at the door (waves upon a tropical shore)
My maiden aunt's mind is vicious (gosh, your lips are delicious)
Well, maybe just a cigarette more (oh, never such a blizzard before)
I've got to go home (Betty, you'll freeze out there)
Say, lend me your coat? (It's up to your knees out there)
You've really been grand (I feel when I touch your hand)
But don't you see? (How can you do this thing to me?)
There's bound to be talk tomorrow (think of my life-long sorrow)
At least there will be plenty implied (if you caught pneumonia and died)
I really can't stay (get over that old out)
Oh, but it's cold outside