(Kris Kristofferson)

Billy Dalton staggered on the sidewalk
Someone said he stumbled and he fell
Six squad cars came screaming to the rescue
And hauled ol’ Billy Dalton off to jail.

'Cause the law is for protection of the people
Rules're rules and any fool can see
We don’t need no drunks like Billy Dalton
Scaring decent folks like you and me, no siree.

Homer Lee was nothin’ but a hippy
Walking through this world without a care
Then one day six strappin’ brave policemen
Held down Homer Lee and cut his hair.

'Cause the law is for protection of the people
Rules're rules and any fool can see
We don’t need no hairy headed hippies
Scarin’ decent folks like you and me, no siree.

Oh, so thank your lucky stars we've got protection
Walk the line and never mind the cost
And no wonder who them lawmen was protectin’
When they nailed the saviour to the cross.

'Cause the law is for protection of the people
Rules're rules and any fool can see
We don’t need riddle speakin’ prophets
Scarin’ decent folks like you and me, no siree...