Little Molly don't go down to the river you're safely tucked up in your bed sweetheart stay away from the water 'cause it longs for your pretty blonde head
Little Molly don't go down to the river oh darling whatever you do just stay away from the water 'cause the tides have been calling for you
oh, some places a child shouldn't go oh, some things a child shouldn't know like the wiles of a handsome young stranger or the ways of those closest to home
there's a darkness runs deep precious one deeper than you'll ever know like the reeds that await the unwary 'neath the stillest of waters below
oh, some places a child shouldn't go oh, some things a child shouldn't know like the wiles of a handsome young stranger or the ways of those closest to home
listen you'll hear a voice whisper "come lay down beside me" and it'll never have peace my sweet daughter 'till it carries your virtue to sea
oh, some things are better unsaid oh, some stories just shouldn't be read oh, some dreams are too real to forget dear heart stay away from the water let your sister take your place instead Little Molly my prettiest daughter let your sister go on now ahead