On The Road To Jericho

On the road to Jericho Mark the stricken one, Moaning in his agony, Prone beneath the sun. Prone beneath the blazing sun, Naked and alone, Bleeding from a score of wounds, Stricken to the bone. Now his tossing arms lie still; Now his moans grow faint. Is there none to succor him Publican or saint? Publican or Pharisee Are none passing by On the road to Jericho Is he left to die? On the road to Jericho Hurry, hurry, priest! 'Twere a sin wert thou away From the saintly feast. Haste thee, Levite, tarry not. At the Temple waits Holy work for thee to do; Haste thee to the gates. God will guard the stricken one. Leave it all to Him. (Now the blood dries on his wouds. Now his eyes grow dim.) Yet - ah tell it! Save the shame - Save the name of Man! On the road to Jericho One Samaritan! On the road to Jericho - 'Voices call 'Make way! See, the Bishop's carriage comes; He's in haste to-day. He's in haste to tend a Prince. Let the good man through, He is lordly; he is rich . . . Not like me or you. He'll 'consider' your appeal. He's no time to waste!' O, despised Samaritan, Haste thee hither, haste! Priest and Levite pass along, Bishops go their ways, On the road to Jericho As in olden days.