The Labourers’ Hymn

We have slaved for you long days and nights of bent and weary lives; Giving the strength of our muscles, our sweat, and our sons and wives; With less food than your horses, and homes less warm than your hives.

We asked for land and freedom, the right to till our own; To harvest and to garner for ourselves, what we had sown; We sought the fruit of our labour; you granted us a stone.

To save the land for your children, who denied their country's wage, Our sons have left their homes to fight, to guard your heritage; When they return — Ah! woe to you before their righteous rage.

You held the land in sufferance to answer for your right, To cherish those beneath you and lead them into fight; You have refused all payment, and trampled in your might.