The Lightning Express

The[A] Lightning Express from it's depot so grand
    Had [D]started out on it's [A]way
All of the passengers that were on board
    [B7]Seemed to be happy and [E7]gay

But [A]one little boy who sat by himself
    Was [D]reading a letter he [D]had
You could plainly tell by the [A]look on his face
    That the [E7]contents of it made him [A]sad

The stern old conductor then started his rounds
    Taking tickets from everyone there
Finally reaching the side of the boy
    He gruffly demanded his fare

I have no ticket the boy then replied
    But I'll pay you back someday
Then I'll put you off at the next stop we make
    But he stopped when he heard the boy say

(chorus)
[A]Please Mr Conductor, don't [D]put me off of this [A]train.
    The best friend I have in the world sir
Is [B7]waiting for me in [E7]pain

[A]Expected to die any moment sir
    And [D]may not live through the [D]day
I want to reach home and kiss [A]Mother goodbye
    Be[E7]fore God takes her [A]away

A girl sitting near was heard to exclaim
    If you put him off it's a shame
Then taking his hat a collection was made
    The boy's fare was paid on the train

I'm obliged to you miss, the boy then replied
    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

(repeat chorus)