[Alarm] He that scatters has climbed before the face, Guard the fortress, watch the road and brace. Strengthen the loins, gather all your power, The siege has arrived at the appointed hour. [Verse I] The shields flash red, the warriors wear scarlet, Steel-bright chariots flare beneath the torch. They rage through streets and jostle in the broadways, Like lightning running wild from court to court. [Chorus] The chariots rage in the streets, The river gates open, the palace retreats. Nineveh empties, the proud heart melts, Knees strike together and courage is felt Only as trembling, only as flight; The lion's old den has lost its night. [Verse II] Captains stumble toward the battered wall, The defense is prepared, but the coverings fall. Huzzab is led away, her maids beat the breast, A city like waters now drains without rest. [Break: Plunder] Take silver, take gold, No end to the store. Vessels of glory Are glory no more. [Refrain] Empty, void, waste, Faces gather blackness. Where is the den that fed the lions? Where is the fearless track? [Bridge] The lion tore enough for cub and mate, Filled caves with prey and flesh at the gate. But the LORD of hosts stands against the throne, Chariots burn, the sword finds what was sown. [Final Chorus] The chariots rage in the streets, The river gates open, the palace retreats. The voice of messengers sounds no more, The empire's roar leaves an emptied floor. Empty, void, waste in the night; The lion's old den has lost its might. [End] No messenger remained To carry Nineveh's command.