The first time I heard this song, I thought it was Irish in origin, as it has the same appeal. But it was written by William Shakespeare Hayes (1837-1907), a prolific American lyricist who is often compared to Stephen Foster. The more I hear it, the more I love it. You can sing along with Tompall and the Glaser Brothers if you’d like.

MOLLIE DARLIN’

Won’t you tell me, Mollie darlin’,
That you love none else but me?
For I love you, Mollie darlin’,
You are all the world to me.

Oh, tell me, darlin’, that you love me.
Put your little hand in mine.
Take my heart, sweet Mollie darlin’,
Say that you will give me thine.

Stars are smilin’, Mollie darlin’,
Through the mystic veil of night.
They seem laughing, Mollie darlin’,
While fair Luna hides her light.

Oh, no one listens but the flowers,
While they hang their heads in shame.
They are modest, Mollie darlin’,
When they hear me call your name.

Mollie fairest, sweetest, dearest,
Look up, darlin’, tell me this,
Do you love me Mollie darlin’?
Let your answer be a kiss.

I must leave you, Mollie darlin’,
Though the parting gives me pain.
When the stars shine, Mollie darlin’,
I will meet you here again.

Oh, goodnight Mollie, goodbye loved one,
Happy may you ever be.
When you’re dreamin’, Mollie darlin’,
Don’t forget to dream of me.

Mollie fairest, sweetest, dearest,
Look up, darlin’, tell me this,
Do you love me Mollie darlin’?
Let your answer be a kiss.