Long since, in sore distress, I heard one pray, br 'Lord, who prevailest with resistless might, br Ever from war and strife keep me away, br My battles fight!' br br I know not if I play the Pharisee, br And if my brother after all be right; br But mine shall be the warrior's plea to thee-- br Strength for the fight. br br I do not ask that thou shalt front the fray, br And drive the warring foeman from my sight; br I only ask, O Lord, by night, by day, br Strength for the fight! br br When foes upon me press, let me not quail br Nor think to turn me into coward flight.