CH1941, Hymn #501

Verse 1
Out from the campfire's red glowing,
Cheerfully shedding its light,
On to the pickets we're going,
For the long watches of night;
Let us be careful that slumber
Press not our eyelids too hard—
Surely not one of our number
Must be found sleeping on guard.

Verse 2
Yonder Rum's camp lights are burning;
Hark to the revelry there!
Waiting the conflict returning,
Scouts are abroad everywhere;
We must be watchful and ready,
See every entrance is barred,
Keeping our heads cool and steady—
All is lost, sleeping on guard.

Verse 3
Our aim is vigilance ever,
We can allow no defeat;
Truehearted soldiers will never
Join in the coward's retreat;
Wary and watchful be keeping,
Though the task be e'er so hard,
Knowing what dangers come creeping
When we are sleeping on guard.