Verse 1: One bright Autumn evening, 'round and old inn door,
A merry group had gather'd, recalling days of yore,
When in the dusky twilight, there appeared a man,
Whose step was slow and feeble, whose face was sad and calm.

"Will you join our group friend, has thy life been well,
Have you not a story, that you to us can tell,"
Yes I have a story, one that's sadly true,
And if you will listen, I'll tell it now to you,

Chorus: Why do our loved ones leave us? Why are our tears in vain?
Why is the sunlight darkened, and veiled by the mists of pain?
Many a heart is weeping, e'en though the brow be clear,
'Neath the gladness sorrow, behind the smile a tear.

Verse 2: In a peaceful valley, 'Neath the mountain shade,
Many years have vanished, since I woo'd a maid,
Her cheeks were like the roses, hair like shining gold,
Her answer came with blushes, when I my love had told.

I will love you always, with a heart that's true
Thus replied my darling, as close to me she drew,
But before the roses, from her cheeks had flown,
She 'neath the sod was sleeping, and I was left alone.

Chorus: Why do our loved ones leave us? Why are our tears in vain?
Why is the sunlight darkened, and veiled by the mists of pain?
Many a heart is weeping, e'en though the brow be clear,
'Neath the gladness sorrow, behind the smile a tear.

Verse 3: Little ones were playing, 'Round our cottage door,
Now their childish voices, are hush'd forever more,
All was joy and gladness, in our happy home,
But alas they're gone now, and I am left to roam.

She grew sad and lonely, for her darlings three,
Who had gone before her, leaving none but me,
Now you have my story, sad although it be,
Yet I know they're watching, and waiting there for me,

Chorus: Why do our loved ones leave us? Why are our tears in vain?
Why is the sunlight darkened, and veiled by the mists of pain?
Many a heart is weeping, e'en though the brow be clear,
'Neath the gladness sorrow, behind the smile a tear.