Oh! who will bear the battle's brunt And lead the ranks of Labour?Our leaders blunder in the front While Victory's a neighbour!We need a man to guide us thro'-- The march is rough and hilly--The army wants to know if you Are coming, Charlie Lilley?
The hand of greed is on the soil And times are growing harder,And soon 'twill break the heart of Toil To fill the workman's larder.Across the sky we hear the cry Of Justice calling shrilly,And we might save her by and by If led by Charlie Lilley.
We want the gentleman who'll face The social sham and evilAnd sacrifice a higher place To seek the people's level.The parasite ne'er led the van To Victory--nor will he:To lead us on we need a man Like brave old Charlie Lilley.
So, Charlie Lilley, will you dare The lying papers' fury,With God alone to judge you fair, The people for a jury?Can heart like yours keep warm and true On heights where hearts are chilly?The people want to know if you Are coming, Charlie Lilley.