IN MEMORY OF THE HARTLEY CATASTROPHE (Joe Wilson) January 16th, 1862. By which 204 Men and Boys were buried alive in New Hartley Pit. By the watch-fire's glow, 'mid the falling snow, There reigns a death-like gloom, Whilst prayers are murmured for those below Immur'd in a living tomb. With a tearless eye, and despairing sigh, Too sad, too griev'd to weep, The watcher's wild and heart-rending cry Is heard on the cold pit-heap. 'Mid the shaft's foul air, the brave searchers dare Its dangers to defy; "Have mercy, O God!" is the last sad prayer Of the miners doom'd to die. Again from below, to the scene of woe The searchers bold appear, Their words breathe hope, while their glances show Dread signs of desponding fear. Seven days have pass'd, they are found at last, Too LATE, sweet life to save, For death's mighty spell is o'er them cast, In that dark and fearful grave. Breathe forth a prayer for bereav'd ones there, Whose peace of mind hath fled, Good Lord, soothe with thy heav'nly care Those who mourn the hapless dead.
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