Well I've come here to tell you folks, I'm ragged but I'm right
I'm a tramp and a gambler, I stay out late at night
But a porterhouse steak three times a day for my board
That's more than any loafer in this big town can afford

Well, I got a electric fan to keep me cool when I sleep
A little baby boy playing round at my feet
I'm a rambler and a gambler, I've led a dirty life
Well I tell you folks, I'm ragged but I'm right

Well when I got married, I knew I'd settle down
And build a little love nest right here in my hometown
Now I've got a family, one that I'm proud of
I know that we'll be happy cause they're the ones I love

Got a big electric fan to keep me cool when I sleep
A little baby boy playing round daddy's feet
I'm a rambler and a gambler, I've led a dirty life
Well I tell you folks, I'm ragged but I'm right

I'm a rambler and a gambler, I've led a dirty life
But I tell you folks, I'm ragged but I'm right

(Earlier versions have additional verses that were dropped by George Jones:)

I hopped on a freight train in North Caroline
Rode down to Atlanta and bought me some 'shine
Went into a card game with 39 cents
Came out with enough for another month's rent

Well you may think I'm bragging but don't get me wrong
I can't run for office while I'm singing this song
I'm a thief and a gambler and I'm drunk every night
I tell you boys I'm ragged but right

I left a pretty little gal layin' there on the floor
Gave her all my love, and who could ask me for more?
Gave her my last quarter just to buy her a drink
Showed her to the door, and then what do you think?

I said, "Go home to your mother, and tell her for me
I'm hittin' the road just 'cause I want to be free"
'Cause I'm a ramblin' man, a gamblin' man, and Lord am I tight
I just called up to tell you that I'm ragged but right