<P> Just before the battle, mother, I am thinking most of you, While upon the field we're watching With the enemy in view . Comrades brave are' round me lying, Filled with thoughts of home and God For well they know that on the morrow, Some will sleep beneath the sod . </P> <P> CHORUS: Farewell, mother, you may never Press me to your heart again, But, oh, you'll not forget me, mother, If I'm numbered with the slain . </P> <P> Oh, I long to see you, mother, And the loving ones at home, But I'll never leave our banner, Till in honor I can come . Tell the traitors all around you That their cruel words we know, In every battle kill our soldiers By the help they give the foe . </P> <P> CHORUS: Farewell, mother, you may never Press me to your heart again, But, oh, you'll not forget me, mother, If I'm numbered with the slain . </P>

When was just before the battle mother written