Who five long years did serve in prison
For a highway robbery he had done.
"Has Sister "Minn," whom I used to play with
In days of youth, forgotten me?
If she has, I vow I can not blame her,
For I've caused her pain and shame, not glee.
"There's but one wish I now shall mention—
That Mother's days may be days of joy,
And when she asks for me in prison
Speak mildly of her convict boy.
"Here, take this to my dear old mother!
I know 'tis but a lock of hair,
But it's all I've got to give her now—
I know she'll treasure it with care."
And when he handed me the keepsake
His spark of life had nearly fled.
He clenched my hand and uttered "Mother!"
And a poor convict there lay dead.
May all young men now take fair warning
From one who's had experience long: