A True Tale Poem by James Casey

A True Tale

These lines are true, as I've been told.
In the hills of, in a lofty mansion,
Her father garnered great stores of gold.
Her hair was as black as the ravens,
Her form and features oh! describe who can?
But still, it's folly belongs to nature:
She fell in love with a servant-man.

As those two lovers were fondly talking,
Her father heard, and near to them he drew;
In anger, home her father flew;
To build a dungeon was his intention,
To part true love he contrived a plan,
He swore an oath by all his mansion
He'd part that daughter from her servant-man.

So he built a dungeon with bricks and mortar,
With a flight of steps, for it was underground;
The food he gave her was bread and water,
The only comfort for her was found.
Three times a day he cruelly beat her,
Unto her father she thus began:
If I've transgressed, my own dear father,
I will lie and die for my servant-man.

The young servant found her habitation,
It was secured by an iron door.
Martin vowed, in spite of all the nation
He would gain her freedom, or rest no more.
So, at his leisure, he toiled with pleasure
To gain the freedom of Mary Ann;
And when he had found out his treasure
She cried, My faithful young servant-man!

Said Edwin, Now I've found my treasure
I will be true to you likewise,
And for your sake I will face your father;
To see me here it will him surprise.
When her father brought her bread and water
To call his daughter he then began,
Said Edwin, Enter, I've freed your daughter,
I will suffer - your servant-man!

When her father found that she had vanished,
Then like a lion he thus did roar,
Saying, From this land you shall be banished,
And with my sword I will spill your gore!
Agreed, said Edwin, I freed your daughter,
I freed your daughter, do all you can;
But forgive your treasure, I'll die with pleasure,
For the one fault is your servant-man.

When her father found him so tender-hearted,
Then down he fell on the dungeon floor,
Saying that love should never be parted,
Since love can enter an iron door.
So soon they're one, to be parted never,
And roll in riches this young couple can,
This fair young lady is blessed with pleasure,
Contented with her young servant-man.


James Casey 1974