This Weary Human Sea

I never am weary of watching

     The lashing waves;

Or the tall bold cliffs that breast them

     Like beaten slaves.

I never am weary of hearing

     The deafening roar

Of the surf that lashes in fury

     The rock-bound shore.

But O, am I weary of watching

     This human sea

That is surging against the weaker

     Humanity.

Jan. 13, 1891

Pub. in Deep River

“New Era”