Lyrics

The battle it was over and the stars were shining bright
And the moon shone on the dying and the dead
But not a sound was heard but the screams of the wild birds
That flittered round the dying soldier’s head

He whispered goodbye to his comrades so dear
With his head upon his knapsack gently leaned gently leaned

Ah but if you go home you can tell my dear old parents not to weep
For tis in that battle field I took that noble part
Break the news gently to them and my comrades so dear
For that fear that almost break their heart

Tell my own dear sister that I kept the gift so rare
While parting so she kindly gave to me
Tell her not to cry for I’ll meet her by and by
In the bright and a happy land above

Do you remember that dear old oak tree
And with my knife I cut my name out in the bark
On early morning I reaped the golden corn
And listened to the warbling of the lark

This dear old spot shall never be forgot
For it’s there I used to meet the girl I love
Tell her not to cry for I’ll meet her by and by
In the bright and a happy land above

Early the next day in beneath that turf he lay
And rest in a soldier’s grave