CHAPTER III. The Dawn of Haskalah

THE DAWN OF HASKALAH

1794-1840

(pp. 110-161)

On the streets in tears we're wading, In our bairns' blood we might be bathing; What a misfortune, ah, wellaway-- Will never dawn the better day?

Little infants from heder are torn, And forced to wear the soldier's uniform; What a misfortune, etc.

Our leaders, rabbis, and honored elders, E'en help to impress them for the czar's soldiers; What a misfortune, etc.

Seven sons has Zushe Rakover, Yet not a one for the army is over; What a misfortune, etc.

Leah, the widow, has an only son, And for the kahal's sins he's gone; What a misfortune, etc.]