Author: Frederick Booth-Tucker (1853-1929) Hymnal: The Song Book of the Salvation Army #780 (1986) Lyrics: 1 They bid me choose an easier path,
And seek a lighter cross;
Thy bid me mingle with Heaven’s gold
A little of earth’s dross;
They bid me, but in vain, once more
The world’s illusions try;
I cannot leave the dear old flag,
‘Twere better far to die.
2 They say the fighting is too hard,
My strength of small avail,
When foes beset and friends are fled,
My faith must surely fail.
But, O how can I quit my post
While millions sin-bound lie?
I cannot leave the dear old flag,
‘Twere better far to die.
3 They say I can a Christian be,
And serve God quite as well,
And reach Heaven just as surely by
The music of church bell;
But, O the drum and clarion call
Of band make my pulse fly!
I cannot leave the dear old flag,
‘Twere better far to die.
4 I answer, life is fleeting fast,
I cannot, cannot wait;
For me my comrades beckoning stand
Beyond the pearly gate;
I hear their hallelujahs grand,
I hear their battle cry:
O do not leave the dear old flag,
‘Twere better far to die!
Topics: The salvation soldier The flag Languages: English
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