Classic Poem

(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!
Just saved his life
Say to his wife
Soon he'll be free "
Will I? — God bless you!
It's me!