My understanding is that this song was written in the 1870's or 80's and was a popular hit back then. I don't think McCurdy was the author.

I have found a short fragment of it in an old cowboy songbook listed as a "traditional" song. This is probably all that a 14-year old who went off to become a cowboy could remember in later years, just a few sentimental lines from home.

It has also, with a slightly different tune, shown up in bluegrass circles in recent years. I believe you can also find it in the Levy sheet music collection online.

Here's the words I've been singing for the past few years.

I'LL REMEMBER YOU, LOVE, IN MY PRAYERS

When the curtains of night are pinned back by the stars,
And the beautiful moon sweeps the sky,
And the dew drops of heaven are kissing the rose,
It is then that my memories fly.
As if on the wings of some beautiful dove,
In haste with the message it bears.
To bring you a kiss of affection and say,
I'll remember you love in my prayers.

Chorus:
Go where you will, on land or on sea
I'll share all your sorrows and cares
And at night when I kneel by my bedside to pray,
I'll remember you love in my prayers

I have loved you too fondly to ever forget
The love you have spoken to me
With your kiss of affection still warm on my lips,
You told me how true you would be.
I know not if fortune be fickle or fair,
Or if time on your memory wears.
I know that I love you, wherever you roam,
And will remember you love in my prayers.

Chorus:

When the angels in heaven are guarding the good,
As God has ordained them to do,
In answer to prayers I have offered to him,
I know there is one guarding you.
And may his bright spirit be with you through life,
To guide you up heaven's bright stairs
To meet with the one who has loved you so long,
And remembered you love, in her prayers.
?

Chorus: