Three Links Of Life - song lyrics 
American Old-time song lyrics from www.traditionalmusic.co.uk 
THREE LINKS OF LIFE. Copyright, 1895, by Frank Harding. Written and Composed by Alice M. Reynolds. 
A schoolboy sat with head bowed down"I've failed in class," said he; "Why can't I be like other boys. And be as bright as they, Who brighter grow each day; I try to learn, but tie so hard To keep it in my head"-His mother, dear, with fond caress, These words to him then said: 
Chorus. Don't be discouraged, lad, your day will come: Remember your childhood's prayer. Thy will be done; I'll ever stick to you while life does last; Be true to your manhood, boy, where'er your lot is cast. 
A young man sat with bead bowed down, His hopes in life had fled: "Why must I toil and drudge," said he, "Just for my daily bread; I'd better far be dead-I long for wealth and rank and fame, I have but naught Instead "-His dear old mother, with a sigh, These words to him then said:- Chorus. 
An old man sat with head bowed down, 'Twas not in grief nor shame; His life well spent, his task was o'er, He'd worked with might and main, He gained both wealth and fame; Through years of toil and strife and care, When clouds hung dark o'erhead, Those loving words still spurr'd him on, The words his mother said:- Chorus.