Sailor, we shall miss you,
Swaggering up and down,
Bringing picaresque romance
To the mouldy town.
On your lips a whistle,
In your heart a dance,
A merry lass upon your arm,
Mischief in your glance.
Childish in your loneliness,
Boyish in your needs,
But a man in strong desire,
A man to do bold deeds.
Fearful tales you told us—
Some of them were true;
Furtive tears were often spilled
In the cups we poured for you.
How we yearned to help you;
Longed to understand
The riddle of your restless look,
The strange lines of your hand.
You brought us pain and vision,
Bright youth and gallant ways.
Sailor, we shall miss you
In the peaceful days!