Jimmie Rodgers is usually credited with writing this song, but this sheet music shows it’s older than that. I have boldfaced the words that are different from what Rodgers sang, but they are pretty insignificant. From the sheet music at Baylor University:


WHISPER YOUR MOTHER’S NAME
Words by Harry Braisted, music by Stanley Carter. ©1896.

1. I was sitting one day
In a gilded café,
Near a window which looked on the street.
When a face caught my eye
In the crowd passing by,
And I hastily sprang to my feet.
‘Twas my sister's sad face
That I’d left home to trace;
Through pride, she had left us one day,
And it brought back to me,
Just as plain as could be,
My mother, as I heard her say:

CHORUS: If you should see your sister,
Do not reproach or blame.
Tell her how we have missed her.
I love her just the same,
My darling!
Say that this word you’ve brought her,
Whether in pride or shame.
Tell her she's still my daughter.
Whisper your mother's name.

2. There were tears on her face
As she passed by the place,
So I hastily stepped to her side.
And as we walked along,
I said: "Nell, we were wrong.
I’m so sorry we wounded your pride.
Your old sweetheart is true
And still waiting for you.
And we’re all willing now you should wed.
If you'll only come back,
You can marry your Jack
And please your dear mother, who said: CHORUS