Come now begin delving, the Bill is obtain’d
The contest was hard, but a conquest is gain’d;
Let no time be lost, and to get business done
Set thousands to work, that work down the sun.
With speed the desirable work to complete,
The hope now alluring – the spirit how great?
By Severn we soon, I’ve no doubt to my mind,
With old Father Thames shall an intercourse find.
With pearmains and pippins ‘twill gladden the throng,
Full loaded the boats to see floating along;
And fruit that is fine, and good hops for our ale,
Like Wednesbury pit-coal, will always find sale …
As freedom I prize, and my Country respect,
I trust not a soul to my toast will object;
‘Success to the Plough, not forgetting the Spade,
Health, plenty and peace, Navigation and Trade.’
From The Canal Builders by Anthony Burton