From the musical “Cupid’s Mirror,” 1918
Words by Neville Fleeson
Music by Albert Von Tilzer
The sheet music:
Accompaniment by Gerd Westendorp:
Lyrics
- When you shall read this letter
I’ll be on my way to France
But, cheer up dear, hope for the best
We’ll check the foe’s advance
Hang out the service flag, dear
‘Twill bring me back some day
And like the Star of Bethlehem
‘Twill light my weary way
Refrain:
When the sun goes down in Flanders
I’ll bring to you my heart so true
Await me, do
And although the night seems weary
The day seems gray
I will be true, love, to you
Don’t be blue though I’m far away
I can see you, as you wander
Down by the sea
To wait the ship that’s bringing me
When twilight shadows fall
I hear you call across the blue
When the sun goes down in Flanders
I’ll return, my love, to you
- Tho’ sad at heart I’m leaving you
I’ve gone to face the foe
But glad of heart I’ll surely be
When I come back you know
So keep the home first burning
And fill your heart with cheer
And if it is God’s will above
I’ll be back within the year
Sung by Vancha March: