For twenty years my sweat has been another man’s to hire

To go and shake the lion’s paw, it was my deep desire

But on the day my chance arose, my poor wife was confined

Without a word, without embrace, I left my love behind.

But had I known as now I do, I’d ne’er have thought to part

It’s not Toronto’s icy wind that chills my lonesome heart

No auction block or prison cell or cut of lash or knife

Could grieve me more than to be free without my loving wife.

The passing years will ne’er erase my sad regret and shame

So I must go to seek again the place I dread to name

To see her lips a moment more, I’d gladly meet my grave

I’ll find the means to bring her here, or be again a slave.

Chords: (4/4)

            G                        C    G               C

For twenty years my sweat has been another man’s to hire

    G                       C       G             D

To go and shake the lion’s paw, it was my deep desire

    G       C      Bm      Em      C         Am      Am7  D7

But on the day my chance arose, my poor wife was confined

    G                       C       G       D7     G

Without a word, without embrace, I left my love behind.