Complete Poetical Works

After the Accident

(MOUTH OF THE SHAFT)

What I want is my husband, sir,--

And if you're a man, sir,

You'll give me an answer,--

Where is my Joe?

Penrhyn, sir, Joe,--

Caernarvonshire.

Six months ago

Since we came here--

Eh?--Ah, you know!

Well, I am quiet

And still,

But I must stand here,

And will!

Please, I'll be strong,

If you'll just let me wait

Inside o' that gate

Till the news comes along.

"Negligence!"--

That was the cause!--

Butchery!

Are there no laws,--

Laws to protect such as we?

Well, then!

I won't raise my voice.

There, men!

I won't make no noise,

Only you just let me be.

Four, only four--did he say--

Saved! and the other ones?--Eh?

Why do they call?

Why are they all

Looking and coming this way?

What's that?--a message?

I'll take it.

I know his wife, sir,

I'll break it.

"Foreman!"

Ay, ay!

"Out by and by,--

Just saved his life.

Say to his wife

Soon he'll be free."

Will I?--God bless you!

It's me!