That kneels and toils for us this day;
A huge, calm, patient, large-eyed Ox,
Black-skinned, among our herds and flocks.
So long, O righteous Lord! so long
Bowed down, and yet so brave and strong—
I think no Christian, just and true,
Can spurn this poor Ox for his hue!
I know not why he shall not toil,
Black-skinned, upon our broad, free soil;
And lift aloft his dusky frame,