1. While the shot and shell were screaming upon the battle field;
The boys in blue were fighting their noble flag to shield;
Came a cry from their brave captain, "Look, boys! Our flag is down;
Who'll volunteer to save it from disgrace?"
"I will," a young voice shouted,
"I'll bring it back, or die;"
Then sprang into the thickest of the fray;
Saved the flag but gave his young life; all for his country's sake.
They brought him back and softly heard him say:
"Just break the news to mother,
She knows how dear I love her,
And tell her not to wait for me, for I'm not coming home;
Just say there is no other
Can take the place of mother;
Then kiss her dear, sweet lips for me, and break the news to her."
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2. From afar a noted general had witnessed this brave deed.
"Who saved our flag? Speak up lads; ‘twas noble, brave, indeed!"
There he lies, sir," said the captain, "he's sinking very fast;"
Then slowly turned away to hide a tear.
The general in a moment, knelt down beside the boy;
Then gave a cry that touch'd all hearts that day.
"It's my son, my brave, young hero; I thought you safe at home."
"Forgive me, father. For I ran away."
"Just break the news to mother,
She knows how dear I love her,
And tell her not to wait for me, for I'm not coming home;
Just say there is no other
Can take the place of mother;
Then kiss her dear, sweet lips for me, and break the news to her." |
