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The Station of Knocklong



The news has spread through Ireland
and spread from shore to shore,
Of such a deed no living man has ever
heard before.
From out a guarded carriage mid a
panic stricken throng,
Sean Hogan he was rescued
at the station of Knocklong.

When a guard of four policemen had
their prisoner minded well,
As the fatal train sped o’er the rails
conveying him to his cell.
The prisoner then could scarce foretell,
of hearts both brave and strong.
That were planning for his rescue
at the station of Knocklong.

The shades of eve were falling fast when
the train at last drew in.
It was halted for an hour or so by
a few courageous men.
They sprang into the carriage and it did
not take them long.
‘Hands up or die’, was the rebel cry
at the station of Knocklong.
 Now King George’s pampered hirelings
they shrivelled up with fear,
and thought of how they placed in cells
full many a Volunteer.
Now, face to face with armed men
to escape how they did long.
But two of them met with traitors deaths
at the station of Knocklong.

From Sologhead to Limerick such deeds
as these were never seen,
And devil a tear was ever shed for
Wallace of Roskeen.
They did old England’s dirty work
and did that work too long.
But the renegades were numbered up
at the station of Knocklong.

Now, rise up Mother Erin and
always be of cheer.
You’ll never die while at your side
there stand such Volunteers.
From Dingle Bay to Garryowen the cheers
will echo long.
Of the rescue of Sean Hogan
at the station of Knocklong.