Verse 1
When shall I lay down my head
On my softest, earthen bed,
Have the rest I fain would have,
Sink into the quiet grave!

Verse 2
When shall I my haven find,
Leave my cares, and griefs behind,
Gain the good for which I weep,
Close mine eyes in lasting sleep!

Verse 3
Might I now escape away,
Quit the tenement of clay,
Take my unsuspected flight,
Steal into the world of light.

Verse 4
Only this do I desire,
Change, and O! My soul require,
Come, my Lord, and Saviour come,
Now prepare, and take me home.

Verse 5
Now pronounce the welcome word,
Pardon, and receive me, Lord,
Now the hallowing blood apply,
Bid me lay me down, and die.

Verse 6
Work a sudden work of grace,
Cut it short in righteousness,
Liken’d to the saints in light,
Call me hence this happy night.

Verse 7
Save me now from all my fears,
Let me pour my latest tears,
E’er [Ere] I see th’ approaching morn,
Bid my spirit to God return;

Verse 8
Breathless leave this heavy clod,
Faint into the arms of God,
Glide in blissful dreams away,
Wake in everlasting day.