Why have my loved ones gone, Like the dew 'neath the early sun? Why am I left alone, While all their troubles here done? My days of youth have passed away And the shades of life are near, But I still remain to mourn the happy days Where dear departed friends were here. Why have my loved ones gone, Gone to return no more Calmly gliding o'er a Summer sea Whilst I'm left plodding on the shore? Why have my loved ones gone, From the joys and pains of life? Why do I still live on, Alone to battle in the strife? Alone to struggle in the fray, Till my earthly cares are done; While the young, the fair have vanished from the day, Before their sorrows had begun. Why have my loved ones gone, Gone to return no more Calmly gliding o'er a Summer sea Whilst I'm left plodding on the shore? Why have my loved ones gone, While the Springtime is on the breeze? Gliding the hill side farm, And breathing music throe the trees! The birds are singing in the air, And the flowers are in their bloom; All things around are beautiful and fair But still my spirit lies in gloom. Why have my loved ones gone, Gone to return no more Calmly gliding o'er a Summer sea Whilst I'm left plodding on the shore?