The Plough Boy - 1875 (by James Marsh)

There was a time, I mind it well When I was blithe and strong I tripped over hill and dell And sang the Plough boy’s song. My Masters with me were well pleas’d I did my work at best, I scarcely thought of mine own ease Or wished for night to rest. The summer heat and winter cold I passed cheerily Braving it like a sailor bold Out on the deep blue sea. Thus passed by my ploughboy days So cheerfully and bright Watching for the first morning rays But heedless of the night. In after years I sought a wife God’s gift to man in love, I found her gentle, free from strife, And harmless as the dove. God gave us many children dear For whom we labour’d hard, And strove to teach them him to fear And read his holy word. The same had cheer’d us from our youth We may not then refuse To tell them of its blessed truths Which we would they should choose. From sinners ways they stood aloof That brings disgrace and shame Whilst underneath our humble roof None could find cause for blame.

Now for themselves they’re gone to care Where snares their way beset Poor parents – who neglect their prayer For children they begot. The years have swiftly rolled on My hairs have turned gray, And youth, and strength with them is gone And left me to decay. The summer heat and winter cold Tells much upon me now; My tales of days are well nigh told And naked is my brow. I think over the years gone by My thoughts, words, deeds amiss; And oft it causes me to sigh And pray for forgiveness. O God, I cry, who ever art Well pleased in thy Son – Hear him whose own life paid the smart For things that I have done. Through him I ask, who for my sin So freely shed his blood: How sweet that peace ofttimes within Whispering, (tis from God). I often shout Glory to him Who came my debt to pay; His blood alone can make me clean And fit me for that day. I live in hope that I ere long Shall with him ever be – Then I will change my plough boy song To Mercy, Mercy Free !!!