Otis, as I remember them: The Lightening Express from the depot in town
Had started out on its way
All of the passengers that were on board
seemed to be happy and gay.
But one little boy who sat by himself
Was reading a letter he had.
You could plainly see by the look in his eyes
The contents of it made him sad.

The stern old conductor was making his rounds
Taking tickets from everyone there
Finally reaching the side of the boy
Gruffly demanded his fare.
"I have no ticket to give you, sir, but I'll pay you back some day."
"Then I'll put you off at the next stop we make."
But he stopped when he heard the boy say

"Please, Mr. Conductor, don't put me off of this train.
The best friend I have in this world ,sir
Is waiting for me in pain.
Expecting to die any moment, sir
And may not live through the day.
I've got to reach home and kiss mother goodbye
Before God takes her away."

A girl sitting near was heard to exclaim
"To put him off is a shame."
Taking his hand, a collection she made
Til the boy's fare was paid on the train
"I'm obliged to you miss" the boy said to her.
"You're welcome, I'm sure. Never fear."
But each time the conductor would pass through that car
The boy's words would ring in his ears.

"Please, Mr.etc. ^^^