Let my inspiration flow in token rhyme, suggesting rhythm That will not forsake you, till my tale is told and done While the firelight's aglow, strange shadows from the flames will grow Till things we've never seen will seem familiar
Down in Carlisle, he loved a lady many years ago Here beside him stands a man, a soldier from the looks of him Who came through many fights, but lost at love
While the story teller speaks, a door within the fire creaks Suddenly flies open, and a girl is standing there Eyes alight, with glowing hair, all that fancy paints as fair She takes her fan and throws it, in the lion's den
Which of you to gain me, tell, will risk uncertain pains of hell I will not forgive you if you will not take the chance The sailor gave at least a try, the soldier being much too wise Strategy was his strength, and not disaster
The sailor, coming out again, the lady fairly leapt at him That's how it stands today. You decide if he was wise The story teller makes no choice. Soon you will not hear his voice His job is to she'd light, and not to master
Since the end is never told, we pay the teller off in gold In hopes he will return, but he cannot be bought or sold