Punch/Volume 147/Issue 3832/Home Thoughts from the Trenches
Old mother mine, at times I find Pauses when fighting's done That make me lonesome and inclined To think of those I left behind— And most of all of one.
At home you're knitting woolly things They're meant for me for choice; There's rain outside, the kettle sings In sobs and frolics till it brings Whispers that seem a voice.
Cheer up! I'm calling, far away; And, wireless, you can hear.Cheer up! you know you'd have me stay And keep on trying day by day; We're winning, never fear.
Although to have me back's your prayer— I'm willing it should beYou'd never breathe a word to spare Yourself, and stop me playing fair; You're braver far than me.
So let your dear face twist a smile The way it used to do; And keep on cheery all the while, Rememb'ring hating's not your style— Germans have mothers too.
And when the work is through, and when I'm coming home to findThe one who sent me out, ah! thenI'll make you (bless you) laugh again, Old sweetheart left behind.