1 Where is my wayward boy tonight?
Out in a world of care?
Roving in sin,—how sad the sight!
Forgetting a mother's pray'r.

Chorus:
Where is my boy tonight?
Where is my boy tonight?
Where is my boy tonight?
Oh, where is my boy tonight?

2 Where is my wayward boy tonight?
Off on the plains of woe,
Grieving a loving mother's heart?
Oh, child, can you treat her so? [Chorus]

3 Where is my wayward boy tonight?
Has he forgotten home?
Oh, could he know the pray'rs and tears
Of mother, so sad and lone! [Chorus]

4 Where is my wayward boy tonight?
Where will he lay his head?
Oh, is he suff'ring in the cold,
No shelter, no home, nor bread? [Chorus]

5 Where is my wayward boy tonight?
Does he not care for me,—
Pleading in love to teach him right,
While sitting upon my knee? [Chorus]

6 Where is my wayward boy tonight?
Lord, do not let him stray;
Can he a mother's love requite,
By sinning his life away? [Chorus]