A Mother-Song

Mother, O mother! forever I cry for you, Sing the old song I may never forget; Even in slumber I murmur and sigh for you.-- Mother, O mother, Sing low, "Little brother, Sleep, for thy mother bends over thee yet!"

Mother, O mother! the years are so lonely, Filled but with weariness, doubt and regret! Can't you come back to me--for to-night only, Mother, my mother, And sing, "Little brother, Sleep, for thy mother bends over thee yet!"

Mother, O mother! of old I had never One wish denied me, nor trouble to fret; Now--must I cry out all vainly forever,-- Mother, sweet mother, O sing, "Little brother, Sleep, for thy mother bends over thee yet!"

Mother, O mother! must longing and sorrow Leave me in darkness, with eyes ever wet, And never the hope of a meeting to-morrow? Answer me, mother, And sing, "Little brother, Sleep, for thy mother bends over thee yet!"