The Gambler

The town knew the Gambler would be back tonight.
He was tough to beat and usually ended in a fight.
They were waiting for him to get off the late train.
Knew it'd be a late night so in town he'd remain.

He hardly was ever mean, least tried not to be.
He tipped his hat to each lady he would see.
Everyone stood along the street, as he passed by
It was very quiet, not one baby had even cried.

He pushed the swinging bar doors open, entered in
the others sitting at the table were ready to begin.
He deliberately would take his time, order a drink,
when someone yelled, "Time to start, don't ya think?"

Everyone had immediately cleared out of the bar,
the musician quit singing and playing his guitar.
His friends had rushed over to calm him down,
as the Gambler suddenly had turned around.

He slowly walked to the table and took a seat,
hoping tonight these jokers he would beat.
To each player the cards had now been dealt.
he had the winning card hidden under his belt.

They tossed in their chips, all bets were in,
Some of the guys patience was getting thin.
Halfway through the night only two were left,
The Gambler and a cowboy by the name of Jeff.

Their eyes never once looked down,
people were standing all around.
The Gambler was quick and very very sly,
threw in the winning hand, Jeff about died.

The table, Jeff had now flipped over on the floor.
while the Gambler headed out the swinging doors.
He hadn't lost in this game, he just broke even,
and soon this old town, he would be leavin'.

The morning train blew its whistle then stopped.
Now the Gambler was hungry, ordered lamb chops.
As he finished eating he sat back and fell asleep,
nobody had expected him to die in his sleep.

Everyone knew the Gambler died happily,
doing what he'd done best, that was gambling.