Blackjack Byers

by Scott Parsons

 

Lt Colonel Robinson, a loyalist from the states
Brought to the Island of St John's, a couple who were slaves
Blackjack and Amelia Byers might have their liberty
At the end of one year, if they were well behaved

1804 the story goes, Blackjack before the court
stealing to the value of ten pence, they tied him to a cart
from Harvies Brig at Pownal Square, they whipped him to the stocks
Thence to the wharf and back to gaol, their hopes of freedom lost

Soon after this, notorious judicial punishment
Was laid upon two of their sons, they hanged them for their sins
Sancho stole bread and butter, Peter a few coins
a travesty of justice on the Island of St John's