Lyrics:

Getting tired of sleeping in this lowdown lonesome cell

Lord, I wouldn't have been here if it had not been for Nell

Lay awake at night and just can't eat a bite

Used to be my rider

but she just won't treat me right



Got a red-eyed captain

and a squabbling boss

Got a mad dog sergeant, honey, and he won't knock off





I'm getting tired of sleeping in this lowdown lonesome cell

Lord, I wouldn't 've been here if it had not been for Nell

I asked the government to knock some days off my time

Well, the way I'm treated, I'm about to lose my mind

I wrote to the governor, please turn me a-loose

Since I don't get no answer, I know it ain't no use



I'm getting tired of sleeping in this lowdown lonesome cell

Lord, I wouldn't have been here if it had not been for Nell

I hate to turn over and find my rider gone

Walking across my floor, Lordy, how I moan

Lord, I wouldn't have been here if it had not been for Nell



I'm getting tired of sleeping in this lowdown lonesome cell