Oh they gave him his orders out of Monroe, Virginia
Saying "Pete you're way behind time.
This is not 38 but it's old 97,
You must put her through and get her on time."
Now it's a mighty rough road from Memphis to Danville
and a line on a three mile grade.
It was on this grade that his air brakes failed
and you know what a wreck he made.
Now he was goin' down grade makin' 90 miles an hour
When his whistle began to scream.
He was found in the wreck with his hand on the throttle
And all scalded to death with steam.
Oh lady, oh lady, you must take warning,
From this day now and on!
Never speak harsh words to your true and loving husband,
He may leave you and never return!