After The Accident

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(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!

© Francis Bret Harte