When a horseman comes rapidly up from behind,

And a voice in his ear

Shouts in tones round and clear,

“Ho, there! stand and deliver! your money or life!”

While some murderous weapon, a pistol or knife,

Held close to his head,

As these words are being said,

Glitters cold in the moonlight, and fills him with dread.

Now I think you will own,

That when riding alone