Dutiful, underpaid bearer of burden
(Although as oxen your past roles were cast,
And dark the stage whereon your scene was set)
The wearing of the yoke of toil has been your alchemist.

Heights imperceptible, by sheer strength surmounted,
Dire circumstance and hind'ring bars o'ercome,
With sinew taut and stamina unyielding,
Complete, you stand a toil created man.