Kenneth reads a poem written by his great-great-great-grandfather before 1780—a man who was married at Cornelly Church, raised thirteen children (all of whom survived, with some later emigrating to Canada), and worked a two-acre smallholding where Kenneth’s grandfather would later build homes for his family. The poem explores faith, courage, and redemption through the story of two Cornish miners whose lives take dramatically different paths.
Set in a Cornish village, the poem contrasts a devout miner who lives a life of prayer and virtue with his unrepentant comrade who rejects religion and indulges in sin. The devout miner is portrayed as a man of quiet strength, beginning each day in prayer and carrying his faith with him into the darkness of the mine.
The narrative builds towards a moment of crisis when a mistake during blasting causes an explosion underground, trapping the miners. While chaos erupts, the faithful miner remains calm, trusting in God’s presence and praying not only for himself, but for the safety of others. Miraculously, he survives unharmed—lifted from the wreckage while singing praise.
The poem presents his survival not as chance, but as divine intervention—a testament to the strength of faith in the face of danger. His miraculous escape becomes a turning point for those around him, stirring reflection and spiritual awakening.
The poem ends with a call to repentance, holding up the devout miner as a symbol of true greatness—not through status or wealth, but through steadfast belief and selfless devotion. It is a tribute to those whose quiet faith shines brightest in the darkest places.
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