from "Foster's Melodies, No. 15. When this war is ended."
"When This Dreadful War Is Ended" (1863)
Written by George Cooper, 1838-1927
Music by Stephen Collins Foster, 1826-1864

1.
When this dreadful war is ended,
  I will come again to you,
Tell me dearest ere we sever,
  Tell me, tell me you'll be true.
Though to other scenes I wander,
  Still your mem'ry pure and bright,
In my heart will ever linger,
  Shining with undying light;
Do not weep love, sit beside me,
  Whisper gentle words of cheer,
Be not mournful now my darling,
  Let me kiss away each tear.

CHORUS
How happy I will feel if I but know
  That you'lll contented be,
I'll never, never have one pang of woe,
  While you are true to me.

2.
Oh the gory field of battle
  Your sweet voice will nerve my hand,
And when weary, sad or wounded
  Your fair image near me stand.
In my visions, like some angel,
  You will turn my grief to bliss;
On my pale and fevered forehead
  I will often feel you kiss.
Our dear native land'd in danger
  And we'll calmly bide the time
Till this dreadful war is over,
  And the bells of peace shall chime.

(CHORUS)

3.
When this dreadful war is ended,
  (Soon I hope the day will come,)
Love's own star will lead my footsteps
  Safely back to you and home.
Oh! what a joy again to meet you
  When the threat'ning storm is past,
And the flag our foes have planted
  Flies in shreds upon the blast
Farewell! farewell! best and dearest,
  Do not let you heart repine,
Though the sky may now look gloomy
  Soon the sun will brightly shine.

(CHORUS)