Thinking Of The Dear Ones Left At Home - song lyrics 
American Old-time song lyrics from www.traditionalmusic.co.uk 
THINKING OF THE DEAR ONES LEFT AT HOME. Copyright, 1897. by Carleton, Cavanagh & Co. Words and Music by Harry Howard. 
'Twas just before the battle, a soldier stood alone, His eyes were fixed on something in his band. 'Twas but a little picture of the wife he loved at home, And their baby dear, the sweetest in the land. A tear-drop glistened in his eye, within his heart there lay A prayer to keep them safe where'er he'd roam; And when his comrades saw him thus, they'd whisper soft and say, "He's thinking of the dear ones left at home." 
Refrain. Thinking of the dear ones left at home, Thinking of the dear ones left at home. Thinking of the welcome sweet when again in peace they'd meet; Thinking of the dear ones left at home. 
The battle's din was ended, the wounded and the dead Lay on the field bathed in the moon's pale light. Upon a comrade's knee the dying soldier laid his head, Until his soul should pass to scenes more bright. They tried with hope to cheer, as they spoke in whispers low; But far away his thoughts would seem to roam. They knew his heart so faithful, as his breath came faint and slow. Was breaking for the dear ones left at home. 
Refrain. Thinking of the dear ones left at home, Thinking of the dear ones left at home. Thinking of the welcome sweet, when in paradise they'd meet, Thinking of the dear ones left at home.