James, James, hold the ladder steady James, James, I'm packed and I am ready James, James, hold the ladder steady I'm a-comin' down to your arms I'm a-comin' down to your arms
Now, James and I We went to mama and showed her my diamond ring She said, "My poor little baby, you must be crazy To think of such a thing"
So! James, James Hold the ladder steady ...
Now, James and I We went to daddy and said, "Dad, we want to be wed" Dad said "Nope, you'll just have to elope!" And laughed as he went to bed
But, James, James Hold the ladder steady ...
I'd hate to see 'em in the morning when They both completely flip! He'll be saying, "They can't!" She'll be feelin' faint And I'll be kissin' my husband's lips