The Lightning Express from the depot so grand has started out on its way
All the passengers gathered on board, they seemed to be happy and gay
But one little boy who sat by himself was reading the letter he had
You plainly could tell by the look on his face that the contents of it made him sad
The stern old conductor then started his rounds, taking tickets from everyone there
Finally reaching the side of the boy, he grumpily demanded his fare
I have no ticket, the boy then replied, but I'll pay ye back some day
Then I'll put you off at the first stop we make, but he stopped when he heard the boy say
Please, Mr. Conductor, don't put me off 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 want to reach home and kiss mother goodbye before God takes her away
A girl sitting near was there to explain, if you put him off it's a shame
Taking his sign, the collection was made, the boy's way was paid on the train
Oh, Blanche, do you miss for your kindness to me?
You're welcome, she said, never fear
Each time the conductor would pass through the car, the boy's words would ring in his ear
Please, Mr. Conductor, don't put me off 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 want to reach home and kiss mother goodbye before God takes her away
I want to reach home and kiss mother goodbye before God takes her away