1. If my impending separation from you
Had given me leave

2. I would have parted with my soul at the hour of farewell
And so been spared my anguish and long vigil

3. My yearning and craving and hankering
If after we part

4. You think I'll be distraught
That I cannot endure the sundering

5. Then ask friends I have graced with my company
Be they leaders or led among the tribe

6. Did the heat of my tormented sighs
Almost burn them alive

7. Or the torrent of my tears
Almost drown their hearts