To Jack

So, Ive battled it through on my own, Jack,     I have done with all dreaming and doubt.     Though stoney to-night and alone, Jack,     I am watching the Old Year out.     I have finished with brooding and fears,     Jack, And the spirit is rising in me,     For the sake of the old New Years, Jack,     And the bright New Years to be.     I have fallen in worldly disgrace, Jack,     And I know very well that you heard;     They have blackened my name in this place, Jack,     And I answered them never a word.     But why should I bluster or grieve,     Jack? So narrow and paltry they be,     I knew you would never believe, Jack,     The lies that were said against me.     That is done which shall never be undone,     And I blame not, I blame not my land,     But Im hearing the Calling of London,     And I long for the roar of the Strand.     It was always the same with our race,     Jack; You know how a vagabond feels,     We can fight a straight man face to face, Jack.     But we cant keep the curs from our heels.     You know I loved women and drink, Jack,     And thats how the trouble began;     But you know that I never would shrink,     Jack, From a deed that was worthy a man!     I never was paltry or mean, Jack.     And cruel I never could be,     I will give you a hand which is clean,     Jack, When we meet again over the sea.     I will bring a few wrinkles of care,     Jack; I have altered a lot, I am told;     The steel-filings show in my hair, Jack;     But my heart is as young as of old.     I have faith still in women, and men, Jack,     Though selfish and blind they may be.     I still have my soul and my pen, Jack,     And my country seems dearer to me.     I will sail when your summer sets in, Jack,     And good-bye to my own native land;     Oh, I long for a glimpse of your grin, Jack,     And I long for the grip of your hand.     We both suffered sorrow and pain, Jack,     And sinned in the days that are done;     But well fight the old battle again, Jack,     Where the battle is worth being won.