Lily Maid

Good sir, I now present myself before you.

With velvet robes and lilies in my hair,

My ladies do their best with what they're given,

And I only pray that you will find me fair.



I ask you leave a penny for the bargeman

And one in penance for the hearts you break.

And keep these words forever as reminder

Of what sends a dying lily to the lake.



Dear Lancelot, my sorrow clad in silver,

You see my thoughts return to you again.

You came to me as others come a-courting

But nothing is with you as other men.



I ask you leave a penny for the sermon

And another for the errors that you make.

And keep these words forever as reminder

of what sends a dying lily to the lake.



With trembling hands I held your life inside you

But failed to earn your favour for my own.

Your coppers were an empty consolation,

For my needs are met by you, and you alone.



I ask you leave a penny for the water

And another for the liberties you take.

And keep these words forever as reminder

of what sends a dying lily to the lake.



Please keep these words, my love, as a reminder.