On the Chissom Trail it was midnight
Carmela was strong on his mind
Because of the life he had chosen
Carmela had left him behind
Too long he'd been a bandito

Carmela had left him alone
But today someone brought a message
She'd been seen in old San Antone

Cross the Brazos at Waco
Ride hard and I'll make it by dawn
Cross the Brazos at Waco
I'm safe when I reach San Antone

He glanced back over his shoulder
The possee was nowhere in sight
He'd sent for Carmela to meet him
On the banks of the Brazos tonight
She was waiting and he kept the promise
He'd made such a long time ago
As he dropped the guns that she hated
In the muddy Brazos below

Cross the Brazos at Waco
Ride hard and I'll make it by dawn
Cross the Brazos at Waco
I'm safe when I reach San Antone

Then the night came alive with gunfire
He knew that at last he'd been found
As the Ranger's badge shone brightly
El bandito lay on the ground
Carmela knew he was dyin'
That all of her dreams were in vain
As she kissed his lips for the last time
She heard him whisper again

Cross the Brazos at Waco
Ride hard and I'll make it by dawn
Cross the Brazos at Waco
I'm safe when I reach San Antone

I'm safe when I reach San Antone