The Workingman's Advocate

VOL. VI.
From the Anthracite Monitor.
In the Memory of Wm. H. Sylvis.
BY JOHN CROSSON.
We cannot forget him tho' cold in his grave,
Lies our brave and Illustrious chief;
And the willows above his tenement
Time can never assuage his grief.
We cannot forget all the efforts he made.
To help our movement along
By the gallant exertions he ever displayed
In opposing oppression and wrong.
His country's advancement was always his aim.
In the cause of labor he died;
His only ambition a patriot's name,
And our national welfare his pride.
Many times has he penuries barely sustained;
For the patriotism he has showed.
But, thanks to the workingmen, always he gained,
For the care he upon them bestowed.
For selfish aggrandizement he cared not a pin,
With his all he was ready to part;
Satisfied with his triumph all he sought was to win,
Of esteem in the national heart.
He God's cause of liberty always upheld,
And the laborer's rights he maintained
The aggression of bigots he ever repelled.
And victories over them gained.
Tyrannical power he boldly assailed.
And chased all the wolves to their den;
And oft infidel proselytism spoiled.
'Neath his trenchant and vigorous pen
Undismayed by the menace of parties in power.
His course he went fearlessly on,
Disregarding the pageant enjoyed for an hour,
By treason or treachery won.
Where, men, shall we find such a patriot true,
Such an advocate, bold and sincere,
Or a mentor so painful and vigilant too.
We shall find not for many a year.
But peace to thy ashes; great Sylvis, in love
May thy spirit forever remain,
And complacently may it look down from above
When the workingmen's rights are obtained.
SHAMOKIN, JUNE 27, 1870.