A Mother's Warning

Let me sit you down
As I've nothing else to do
I have got a little story
That I will relate to you

When I was just a growing boy
My mother said to me
Always be a gentleman
And shun bad company

And don't go around the grog shops
Where whiskey's bought and sold
For all they want is your money
And you'll need it when you're old

And do not use tabacco, boy
It's vile and evil weed
That causes health conditions
And comes from the devil's seed

Don't patronize the deadfalls
That they have in every town
They'll take away your money, boy
And kick you when you're down

And stay away from dope rings
And gamblers shrewd and bold
For all they want is your money
And you'll need it when you're old

And another thing she told me
When I was just a lad
Be careful around the women
Some are good and some are bad

A bad one will attract you
With a flashy, smile and sigh
And lure you to the depth of sin
With the light of her wanton ways

While a good one will protect you
And she'll do it with a smile
She'll help you when in trouble
And she'll love you all the while

She'll love you and respect you
And help you store your gold
So you might have a little cash
To share when you are old

Now, had I obeyed the councils
My Mother had gave to me
I'd probably be on easy street
With a peaceful memory

Alas, Alas, each one I scorned
And lived a life quite gay
And now today I suffer
For the sins of yesterday

No - I did not heed her warning
And do what I was told
So here I am without a cent
When I'm growing old

So now you boys take warning
Makes no difference where you be
And listen to your ma's advice
Or you'll end up just like me