[Verse 1: Ray Wylie Hubbard]
The dying saints held their faith
With blood-stained prayers
The wicked gods gave the poets
Regret and despair

[Verse 2: Ray Wylie Hubbard]
Now some ruffians and grifters
Might fall in love with no hesitation
Whether with harlots or virgins
It's no guarantee of salvation

[Chorus: Ray Wylie Hubbard and Patty Griffin]
When I plead my cause before the court of heaven
Before I likely take my place in hell
The regrets, I'll own forever
'Cause I'll not see my love again
And in times of cold, she'll be alone as well

[Verse 3: Ray Wylie Hubbard]
Our scrapes were not lethal
And my crimes just purloined schemes
She prayed for my atonement
Some souls can't be redeemed

[Verse 4: Ray Wylie Hubbard and Patty Griffin]
A rose leaves its fragrance
When tread on by a heel
So when I've come to where all light is gone
Her essence will be with me still
[Chorus: Ray Wylie Hubbard and Patty Griffin]
When I plead my cause before the court of heaven
Before I likely take my place in hell
The regrets, I'll own forever
'Cause I'll not see my love again
And in times of cold, she'll be alone as well
The regrets, I'll own forever
'Cause I'll not see my love again
And in times of cold, she'll be alone as well