When first I came to Louisville
Some pleasure for to find
I spied a maid from Lexington
Quite pleasing to my mind
Her sparkling eyes and saucy cheeks
Like an arrow pierced my breast
They called her Handsome Florry
The Lily of the West
Her curly locks of yellow hair
In ringlets shown like gold
She had a ring on every finger
So handsome was she dressed
They called her Handsome Florry
The Lily of the West
One evening as I walked out down
By yon shady grove
I spied a man of low degree
Conversing with my love
He sung her a song of melody
Which so enraged my breast
He called her Handsome Florry
The Lily of the West
I stepped up to my rival
My dagger in my hand
I took him by the collar
And bold I bid him stand
I was mad to desperation
I swore I'd pierce his breast
Saying go false-hearted Florry
The Lily of the West
But now I am convicted
To prison I must go
For five long years in Frankfort
Which fills my heart with woe
She's robbed me of my liberty
Deprived my of my rest
I never can forgive her
The Lily of the West
In due time came my trial
Ah bold I made my plea
A flaw in the indictment
They said would set me free
But she turned both judge and jury
So handsome was she dressed
They smiled on Handsome Florry
The Lily of the West