Strawbs - Beat The Retreat lyrics

Cousins The rat race was over Before it was won And I started walking When I could have run Like a child who missed out On a sunday school treat Now you know how I feel when I beat the retreat. I slept like a soldier My gun at my side My uniform folded I wore it with pride I could not rest contented Till I joined the elite Now you know how I feel when I beat the retreat. This winter wind brings Such a chill to my bones Erect in my memory A small cairn of stones So that those from afar Can see where our paths meet Now you know how I feel when I beat the retreat. The last post is sounding Now it's time to be gone There's no further reason For singing this song The battle is over I accept the defeat Now you know how I feel when I beat the retreat.