Love's Gallant Steed

I ride like fire from darkest dawn, Above the spire of mountains high, And though the light is pale and wan, I sear the heavens where earth meets sky. As miles behind me fall away, I drive my gallant steed to fly. So on I ride to meet the day, Then wake the morn with chilling cry. "Awake, my love!", my ride grows short, Where miles of road met gallant steed, "I rode through Hell's uncleanest sort To prove my unquenched heart's true need." So far ahead, a sweet young dove, Without the knowledge of my flight, Awaits arrival of her love. As on I gallop in the night. Where all of those whose hearts now cry-- The love they feel ignites their day-- Would never offer their souls to die, Nor sacrifice love on their way. While I would offer all my soul: My life, my fire, my fierce desire, To touch your hair as black as coal, And then to die, my heart on fire. As my breast rages with my cry, I call to you and seek your face. Was all my struggle naught for nigh? Or did the Devil win this race? When all at once, as day was born, I see a face aglow with light; A face so beauteous angels mourn, Their wistful wishes now in flight. I quick dismount and catch my breath; Your beauty drawing tears of love. Then joy bursts free within my heart. My spirit soars to heights above. You sprint with torrents on your cheek, The light of love within your eyes. I catch you as you fly to seek The arms that soothe your joyful cries. And thus, my love, the story ends. I fought the world to see your grace. The trials I faced were my amends As every day love grew apace. While Hell had watched, my steps it groomed; The closer home, Hell's hounds went wild. But Hell's dark legions long were doomed; They cursed me as I simply smiled. No man nor beast nor Hellish fiend Would slow me down nor block my way. And what of Heaven's ways I gleaned Still, guide my love now every day.