Don't Let Her Go Away John - song lyrics 
American Old-time song lyrics from www.traditionalmusic.co.uk 
DON'T LET HER GO AWAY JOHN Copyright, MDCCCXCVI. by Henry J. Wehman. Words by Howard Graham. Music by Charles Graham. 
A willful maiden lived within a happy little home, A loving mother tried her very best To bring her back within the fold, but late she used to roam-Thro' anxious fears her parents had no rest, One night when she came home, her father said. "Now, girl, begone!" The mother said, "Let's bear what she would say; She will be better, John, I'm sure, if you forgive her now; Sbe's better home, don't let her go away." 
Refrain. "Don't let her go away, John, don't let her go away: Home is the. place to keep her, no matter what they say; She is our only daughter, you might regret this day-Let her stay home, why should she roam, don't let her go away." 
The years went by, and empty fame and riches she had won; The old man now la sorry that she went. A life of worldly splendor, full of folly, she begun, And many times he for his child has sent. So as the years roll on, she further drifts from home and friends. "She was not all to blame," you'll hear them say. The mother, when she speaks about her, oft repeals: the words: "I begged you, John, don't let her go away.-Refrain.