The Old Duke

I laugh at those who call me old

Who think my age their best defence

For often fall the young and bold

Who fail to laud experience.

My sword and I are much the same:

Our actions swift and sure

Each scar I wear, each greying hair

The life I gave to her.

Throughout my life Ive led my men

Where King and Prince command

And always does my lady tend

To children, hearth and land.

My wife and I are much the same:

Our actions swift and sure

A husband fair, a home to share

The life I gave to her

To those who thought my lack of sons

Would end a warriors line

I laugh and toast my daughter

Who upon her throne does shine.

My child and I are much the same:

Our actions swift and sure

A privilege rare, a crown to bear

The life I gave to her

So every passing year reserves

Familiar rhythms and the new

And through it all I lead and serve

With joy as I was born to do.

My land and I are much the same:

Our spirits swift and sure

Each oath I swear, each shouldered care

The life I give to her