Let my inspiration flow

in token lines suggesting rhythm

that will not forsake me

till my tale is told and done



While the firelight's aglow

strange shadows in the flames will grow

till things we've never seen

will seem familiar



Shadows of a sailor forming

winds both foul and fair all swarm

down in Carlisle he loved a lady

many years ago



Here beside him stands a man

a soldier by the looks of him

who came through many fights

but lost at love



While the storyteller 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 lept at him

that's how it stands today

you decide if he was wise



The storyteller makes no choice

soon you will not hear his voice

his job is to shed light

and not to master



Since the end is never told

we pay the teller off in gold

in hopes he will come back

but he cannot be bought or sold