I've been working out in the rain
Try to the dirty old ball and chain
Oh dear mother, I'll come home some old day
Some sweet day they'll turn me loose
From this dirty old calaboose
Oh dear mother, I'll come home some old day

Some old day you'll wait for me and pray
Oh dear mother, I'll come home some old day
Some sweet day they'll turn me loose
From this dirty old calaboose
Oh dear mother, I'll come home some old day

Oh dear mother, I've hurt you so
And I've been cruel to you I know
Oh dear mother, I'll come home some old day
Tell my brother, my sister and dad
They're the best friends that I've had
Oh dear mother, I'll come home some old day

* Refrain