Cheer Up!
Wee bairnies in the city slum, the time is drawing near
When in your lives of want and gloom the daylight will appear;
There’s men and women working hard; before their work is done
They’ll take you from your darksome home and place you in the sun.
CHORUS.
Then, cheer up! cheer up! Don’t let your spirits go down!
Always trust in Providence and never wear a frown.
Cheer up! cheer up! Keep smiling if you can,
It’s an antidote for trouble in the life of man.
Now, all young men and maidens, in the heyday of your charm,
Be sure and mate with those you love, ’twill save you future harm.
But if a man or maiden gay should bring your love to naught,
There’s as good fish in the sea to-day as ever have been caught.
CHORUS.
You married men and women, who have realised love’s dream,
And now with quiver filling, “pulling hard against the stream”
You strive and work, yet wonder how your offspring may be fed;
Look up! the dawn is breaking; there are better times ahead.
CHORUS.
You old and grey and feeble, who have spent your days in toil,
To gain an honest living from the mine or from the soil,
You must be better tended here, on that we all agree,
Till you glimpse a fairer Eden, and your spirits are set free.
CHORUS.