For him a single night is like on hundred years He is the reaper, the one who everyone fears He must carry out his masters will at night He is the reaper, the harbinger of fright He is the servant of a strict master named death No ordinary driver holds the reigns Those still alive feel his presence near Always greeted with sorry and despair At the stroke of midnight your time has come to die You will become death's driver Ye spirit that left the body at midnight stroke Thou will relieve me of my office, you will wear the cloak Let my soul come to maturity before it is reaped Please spare me this affliction, lord I beg of thee