The Thousandth Man
Words by Rudyard Kipling, adapted by Leslie Fish, music by Leslie Fish


One man in a thousand, Solomon says,
Will stick more close than a brother.
And it's worthwhile seeking him half your days,
If you find him before the other.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine depend,
On what the world sees in you.
But the thousandth man will stand your friend,
With the whole round world against you.

But if he finds you, or if you find him,
The rest of the world don't matter.
For the thousandth man will sink or swim,
With you in any water.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine of 'em go,
For silver and gold in their dealings.
But the thousandth man is worth them all,
Because you can show him your feelings.

His wrong is your wrong, and his right is your right,
In season or out of season.
Stand up and back it in all men's sight,
With that as your only reason.
Nine hundred and ninety-nine can't bide,
The shame or mocking or laughter.
But the thousandth man will stand by your side,
To the foot of the gallows,
And after.