from:
The Songs of John Jacob Niles (1975; rpt with 8 additional songs, New York, 1993), pp. 79-82

Ef I Had a Ribbon Bow
words and music by John Jacob Niles

If I had a ribbon bow to bind my hair,
If I had a fancy sash, my own true love would think me fair.
And when he goes to Frankfort
Loggin' on the rise,
He'd bring me back with his own hands
A very pretty prize.

If I had a ribbon bow to bind my hair,
If I had a fancy sash, my own true love would think me fair.
If I was like the city brung and fair with smart,
Ne'er a lad in all them parts would know my heart.

Then I'de (sic?) live in Frankfort
Where all the lawin' goes.
I'd lark about the settlements
And wear them furrin' clothes
If I was like the city brung and fair with smart,
Ne'er a lad in all them parts would know my heart.