A Cradle-Song Poem by John Bannister Tabb

Sing it, Mother! sing it low:
Deem it not an idle lay.
In the heart 't will ebb and flow
All the life-long way.


Sing it, Mother! softly sing,
While he slumbers on thy knee;
All that after-years may bring
Shall flow back to thee.


Sing it, Mother, Love is strong!
When the tears of manhood fall,
Echoes of thy cradle-song
Shall its peace recall.


Sing it, Mother! when his ear
Catcheth first the Voice Divine,
Dying, he may smile to hear
What he deemeth thine.