Just before the battle, Mother
I am thinking most of you
While upon the field we're watching
With the enemy in view
Comrades brave are 'round me lying
Filled with thoughts of home and God
For well they know that on the morrow
Some will sleep beneath the sod

Farewell, Mother, you may never
Press me to your heart again
But oh, you'll not forget me, Mother
If I'm numbered with the slain

Just before the battle, Mother
I was drinking Mountain Dew
When I saw the rebels marching
To the rear I quickly flew
Where the stragglers were a-flying
Thinking of their homes and wives
'Twas not the Rebs we feared, dear mother
But for our own sweet precious lives

Fear not, Mother, for you'll never
See my name among the slain
For if I only can skedaddle
Mother, I'll come home again

Hark, I hear the bugles sounding, '
'Tis the signal for the fight
Now may God protect us, Mother
As He ever does the right

Discretion's the better part of valor
'Least that's what I heard you say
And he who loves his life, dear Mother
Won't fight when he can run away

Oh Mother, may you never
See my name among the slain
And I'll lay down my gun forever
And hurry home to you again