Tie That Binds

In a room so lonely and cheerless
Sits a woman, all alone
By her, a cradle stands empty
And o'er it she sobs and she moans:

"My husband, he no longer loves me
His love and our dear baby died
I'll leave him at home forever
And out in this old world abide"

She packed baby's things in a bundle
While the tears rolled down her cheeks
"I never, no never, would leave him
If ever a kind word he'd speak."

Just then the door softly was opened
A man took the bundle away
He laid the things out on the table
And softly to her he did say:

"One little stocking for you, dear
One little blue shoe is for me
The baby's wrap and its smallest cap
We'll keep in memory

One lock of hair is for you, dear
See how the golden curls shine
We'll keep a smile while she sleeps, for
She is the tie that binds"