As your hair grows whiter

AKA
First Published 1897
Writer/composer Harry Dacre Roud RN32446

Music Hall Performers Violet Moore, Rosie Eaton
Folk performances Collected from the singing of:
Charles Keeping and family; England : London; 1930s		 

Light of my life, I will always love you, darling;
You are the friend who is changelessly true.
Hearts there may be that are linked with mine for ever, 
Still my best love is centred in you.
E'en as in days when I lay in my cradle,
Your loving eyes are reflected in mine.
Mother, my own, though the snow has toughed your tresses, 
Age only makes your sweet face more divine. Mother:—

As your hair grows whiter, I will love you more; 
Though your eyes were brighter in the days of yore. 
Though your footsteps falter,
My love shall never alter,
As your hair grows whiter, I will love you more.

Long years ago, when, your life was full of trouble,
Mine was the hand that was clasped in your own; 
Bravely you fought, in the face of pain and sorrow,
Bravely you laboured, unaided, alone,
Rest on my breast. now the clouds are dispersing.: 
Safe in this haven of peace you will be.
Guarding you, dear, from the world and all its dangers, 
Ah, what a labour of love 'tis to me! Mother:

This sentimental piece was written by Harry Dacre and featured his mother on the cover of the UK sheet music.

Another turn of the century song remembered at Charles Keeping’s family sing-songs in the 1930s.

As recorded by Harry Anthony:

Sources: