My dear aunt had an unusually beautiful high soprano voice and sang this at her husbands funeral when she was in her early 90s. I fell in love with it then and got a copy from the Boston Music Co. via Schirmer, Inc in NY.

What I'd like to know is the story behind the song. Was it written by the composer for a particular occasion, event, or as part of a "light opera" ? I have learned it and want to perform it, but like sharing something about a song before I sing it to give it some context.

Anybody know?