On the day when I was born Daddy sat down and cried. I had the mark just as plain as day; Which could not be denied. They say that Cain caught Abel Rollin' loaded dice; Ace of Spades behind his ear And him not thinkin' twice. Halfstep, Mississippi uptown toodeloo Hello, baby, I'm gone, goodbye Half a cup of Rock and Rye. Farewell to you old Southern skies I'm on my way, on my way. Am Am/maj7 Am7 D9 Am Am/maj7 Am7 D9 If all you got to live for Is what you left behind, Get yourself a powder charge And seal that silver mine. Lost my boots in transit, babe, A pile of smokin' leather. I nailed a retread to my feet And prayed for better weather. They say that when your ship comes in, The first man takes the sails; The second takes the afterdeck, The third the planks and rails What's the point of callin' shots; This cue ain't straight in line. Cue ball's made of styrofoam And no one's got the time. Across the Rio Grandeeo, Across the lazy river.