This poem was written by Arthur Winter on the wall of the Federal Prison at McNeil Island, Washington, in September, 1909, and later memorized by another prisoner and forwarded to the Whiz Bang upon his release. We offer it to you for what you think it is worth.
Our prayer has gone up through the ages
To a God whom they say gave us souls;
But the fear of anger still rages,
The thunder of punishment rolls.
We are sheep that are driven to slaughter;
We are dogs that are whelped in the street;
We are useless as poisonous water;
We are only for punishment meet.
So hear ye the prayers from the prison,