An Eſsay on Slavery, with ſubmiſsion to Divine providence, knowing that God Rules over all things----
Written by Jupiter Hammon
1
Our forefathers came from Africa
Tost over the raging main
To a Christian shore there for to stay
And not return again.
2
Dark and dismal was the Day
When slavery began
All humble thoughts were put away
Then slaves were made by Man.
3
When God doth please for to permit
That slavery should be
It is our duty to submit
Till Christ shall make us free
4
Come let us join with one consent
With humble hearts and say
For every sin we must repent
And walk in wisdom’s way.
5
If we are free we’ll pray to God
If we are slaves the same
It’s firmly fixt in his holy word
Ye shall not pray in vain.
6
Come bleſsed Jesus in thy Love
And hear thy children cry
And send them smiles now from above
And grant them Liberty.
7
Tis thou alone can make us free
We are thy subjects too
Pray give us grace to bend a knee
The time we stay below.
8
Tis unto thee we look for all
Thou art our only King
Thou hast the power to save the soul
And bring us flocking in.
