a measure once of simple common sense
now we demand the weight of every word
not one of us can now sit on the fence
a measure once of simple common sense
truth we discover requires some pretence
lest we dismiss the plain sight as absurd
a measure once of simple common sense
now we demand the weight of every word
should the priests and soldiers learn
just what pain their work has brought
we might watch their faces burn
with the effort of plain thought
for one moment of straight time
they might feel the hottest fire
admit truth of cause and crime
do what justice would require
no they turn their faces blank
utter once more the sweet lie
then they stand there rank on rank
wishing that we all would die
if those crows and ravens see
what will happen by and by
a great shout of liberty
would become their final cry
yet they'll close both eye and ear
pray the tide will never come
think that rescue still is near
and not add the total sum
