Nic Jones 1978
Chorus and tune published by John Piersol McCaskey in 1892, attributed to Sir Walter Scott as Minstrel’s Request.
Chorus Dark the night and long till day, Do not bid us further stray. Now the sun it doth decline, Pour the beer and pour the wine; Let us lead your thoughts astray From the world and from the day. We bring songs from history, Love and war and mystery. We can lead you from despair Or can chill the darkening air. You can choose to pass us by With a cruel or scornful eye. We will see the ending through; Then we’ll turn and say to you