Break The News To Mother

Performed by J.W. Myers
Recorded 1904

While the shot and shell were screaming
upon the battlefield;
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 bing 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:

[chorus]
Just break the news to mother,
She know 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."

From ara 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 way 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."

[repeat chorus]

[lyrics transcribed from the sheet music]