Forth from their homes at early morn were seen These hardy toilers hastening to the mine, Where, far beneath the groves and meadows green, No sunbeam on their gloomy path can shine; Yet cheerful still to earn their bread they go, Though momentous dangers threaten them below. By duty urged, the deep shaft they descend, The task is daily - all are free from fear; Though choke-damp* there has blighted many a friend; They deemed not then the deadly gas was near, With lamp and pick to labour now they bend, Unconscious all how soon their work must end. But ere their labour they had begun The foul air gathers round them thick and fast - It ignites - Explodes! - The fatal work is done! - Death struck them down by one tremendous blast; The loud explosion shook the earth around - All stood aghast who worked above the ground. Entombed beneath, the smothered victims lay, While anxious crowds fast throng the bank above; Mothers, and wives, and children in dismay Rush to scene in search of those they love: Alas! on Earth, their loved ones ne'er must meet - Hope points to Heaven, and shows "The Mercy Heal".