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1774–1843

SONNET III

Robert Southey

Oh he is worn with toil! the big drops run Down his dark cheek; hold — hold thy merciless hand, Pale tyrant! for beneath thy hard command O'erwearied Nature sinks. The scorching Sun,

As pityless as proud Prosperity, Darts on him his full beams; gasping he lies Arraigning with his looks the patient skies, While that inhuman trader lifts on high

The mangling scourge. Oh ye who at your ease Sip the blood-sweeten'd beverage! thoughts like these Haply ye scorn: I thank thee Gracious God! That I do feel upon my cheek the glow

Of indignation, when beneath the rod A sable brother writhes in silent woe.

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SONNET III · Robert Southey · Poetry Cove