[Verse 1] The lot was cast; the princess bowed, To bitter fate without a cry. Before the sacred altar vowed, She gave herself prepared to die. [Verse 2 ] Her silken sash and veil displayed, With golden trim upon her gown; The pure and noble, spotless maid Walked to the marsh with eyes cast down. [Verse 3] "O father, weep not, shed no tear; What law demands must be obeyed. Unto the dragon, grim and drear, My life in sacrifice is paid." [Verse 4] The savage dragon roamed by night, To spread his terror far and near; The poisoned waters of his blight Brought death and sickness year by year. [Verse 5] The princess stood, though pale with fear, Before the dragon's dreadful lair: "Let my own flesh be offered here; No shame shall stain the crown I bear." [Verse 6] Yet tears streamed down her mournful face, Upon her gown of silken white: "Where find the strength in this dark place, Brave words lend little aid this night." [Interlude] [Verse 7] A sound of hooves rang from afar, A valiant knight in armor bright; He rode beneath the Morning Star, Upon a snow-white steed of light. [Verse 8] The princess cried, "Flee now, away! By God's own will I here must yield! O noble knight, waste not your life— The dragon comes across the field!" [Verse 9] "To pagan gods you yield in vain Your precious life, so soon to fade; Lord Jesus Christ, who rose again, Is our true shield, our strength and aid!" [Verse 10] The dragon poured his fiery rain, Across the dark and smoking field; One holy spear broke pagan reign, Through Christ, Saint George would never yield. [Verse 11] The land around burned crimson red, The dragon gasped with failing breath. "Go bind your sash around his head; Fear shall not triumph over death." [Verse 12] The princess walked with gentle grace, And led the dragon, meek and mild; Saint George beside her kept his pace— A holy legend undefiled. [Outro]
