They Are The Best Friends Of All - song lyrics 
American Old-time song lyrics from www.traditionalmusic.co.uk 
They Are the Best Friends of All. Copyright, 1893, by Frank Tousey. Words by Theo. Norman. Music by Felix McGlennon. Arr. by Monroe H. Rosenfeld. 
Oh, the fairest spot on earth is to man of little worth, Unless he finds some fellow creature there; But a true And loving friend to the poorest place will lend An ever cheerful, bright and sunny air. When the sun sinks in the West and the toiler seeks his rest The thought of home his weariness will cheer, For he knows 'tis there he'll find honest friends both true and kind, His ever faithful wife And children dear. 
Chorus. They are the best friends of all. no matter whate'er may befall The comfort of his life, his children and his wife They are the best friends of all. 
Now it makes his bosom glad when the children run to dad, For then he has a romp with girls and boys, While his tender, watchful mate smiling greets him at the gate, Prepared to share his sorrow?" and his joys; And in illness or in health, and in poverty or wealth, When climbing up the hill or going down, There's a kindly loving smile to greet him all the while, And even brighten fortune's cruel frown.- Chorus. 
Then when he is growing gray as he journeys on his way, And time has slightly bent his stalwart form, Though his spirit may be bold, still with hearts of purest gold They hasten to protect him from life's storm. His old wife with face so bright is to him a ray of light, That with the children fills his home with love; 'Tis their pleasure and their pride to be ever at his side Until he's called to higher realms above.- Chorus.