I will be here when the bleak cannon sounds.
When the boom sweeps into the cringing air.
I will be here, when the cries cast cold shadows on the ground;
I will be here with songs for us, sorrowful pair.
I will be a cloak bearer, to dam your sea.
When the rioting waters charge to your soul's window.
I will be there, when the world ignores your plea.
I will be there with a clean, dry pillow.
I will be there, bereaved lover, my kiss on your head.
When the insolent dawn refuses to break;
I will be there, bearing a healing that in you will spread,
I will be there, loving stubbornly all your hate.
I will never leave, my sweet, though you are bitter.
Wish me away, I will stay, Oh, a free slave for you;
I will never leave, though the path obscures with litter.
I will never leave, not now, not even if you do.