Give me drink, rest, and solitude—
these are all the things I long for;
give me as well your finest food
and I\'ll ask of you, lass, no more!
My lovely lass, what\'s the matter—
why are you all down and alone?
Don\'t be vexed because you\'re sadder
than most, dear, for God loves His own.
Sweet girl, I\'ll tell you a secret:
if I were a young lad again,
I\'d chase you for your sweet asset.
But as I am two-score and ten
years old (with wife in deed)—never
can I be your white knight with steed:
but your sadness won\'t last for ever
if you pray for the one you need.