I was standing by my window yesterday morning

Without a thought a worry or of care

When I saw the postman coming up the pathway

With such a jolly face and jolly hair

He rang the bell and he whistled as he waited

He smiled and said good morning to you Jack

He little knew the sorrow that he brought me

When he handed me that letter edged in black

With trembling hands I took the letter from him I opened it and this is how it read

Come home my boy your dear old father needs you

Come home my boy your dear old mother's dead

I'm sorry that harsh words were ever spoken

You know I didn't mean them don't you Jack

My eyes are blurred my poor old hand is shaking

As I'm writing you this letter edged in black

The last words that your mother ever uttered

Was tell my boy I want him to come back

The angels bear me witness as I'm asking

Your forgiveness in this letter edged in black