School: Knockbride (2)

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1. The Troubles of 1798 - A True Story - A Grandfather's Tale (continued)

   

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   "Who was that fellow, Watchman, that over the linen ran?
   "Say was it Brown, the rebel, or another of the clan;
   "Remember now, no nonsense, your life isn't worth a groat;
   "Come tell us straight and true, my man, or we'll hang you on the spot."

   He rubbed his brow for an instant, then answered without a frown:-
   "Well, if I must tell you, masters, it wasn't neighbour Brown:
   "But poor Jack Smith, the madman, he ran when he heard the gun;
   "He often comes to my cabin fire when his daily work is done."

   They made as if to hang him - but his courage never failed;
   They called him a 'lying rebel'- but humanity prevailed;
   "Boys, we must be patient, his is not a terrible crime;
   "Let him live a little longer; we'll be back some other time."
   * * * * * * * *

   I suppose you want me to tell you what became of Joe:
   Well he went into a hiding for about a year or so;
   The worst was not yet over, for many hundreds fled;
   But he was specially sought for; a price was on his head.

   He was persecuted daily; he was watched on every side;
   He found it here all trouble, but he knew the world was wide;
   He managed to get in safety to the port of Newry, where
   He found a ship for America, and his friends all joined him there.

   And when I think my heart grows big & a tear comes to my eyes;

   (continues on next page)

   

   Transcribed by a member of our volunteer transcription project.

   History Edit

   Language

   English

   Collector

   Thomas J. Barron

   Gender

   Male

   Occupation

   Teacher