Refrains
" . . . Whereupon coming to the bars of his window
and looking out, he did begin to weep and lament him, and
cry out on the good sun that shone even into the King's prison.
But most he did bewail that no one should pay heed to his
death. . . ."
I KNOW not if the air is sweet, nor if the roses flower;
I only hear one tiny bird that chirps the passing hour.
I know not if the air is sweet, nor if the roses flower.
If I could only flee the death that waits at break of day,
To some untravelled country-side I would escape away.
If I could only flee the death that waits at break of day.
I would not need a house, nor wife, nor even clothes to wear;
But only God's dear firmament, and sunshine, and the air.
I would not need a house, nor wife, nor even clothes to wear.
What matter all the things men prize, comfort, and luxury,
When one may shout, and laugh, and run, and be at liberty?
What matter all the things men prize, comfort, and luxury?
