To Thee my Master I offer my prayer
Feed me water me and care for me
And when the long day's work is done provide me with shelter
A clean dry bed where I can lie down in comfort
Always try be kind to me your voice often means far more to me than the reins
And pet me sometimes that I may serve you the more gladly and learn to love you
Don't jerk the reins strike beat and kick me when I don't understand what you want
But give me the chance to understand you
Don't tie me where water can drip on me and please keep me well shod
And examine my teeth when I don't eat
I may have an ulcerated tooth and that is very painful
Don't' tie my head in an unnatural position or take away my best defense
Against flies and mosquitos by cutting off my tail
I can't tell you when I am thirsty so give me good clear cool water real often
Save me by all means in your power from that fatal disease the glandars
I can't tell you in words when I don't feel good or when I am sick
So watch me so that by signs you may always know my condition
Give me all possible shelter from the hot sun and put a blanket over me
Not when I am traveling or working but when I am standing in the cold
Never put a frosty or dirty bit in my mouth but first clean it and warm it in your hands
I try to carry you and your burdens without a murmur
And wait patiently for you long hours of the day and night
Without the power to chose my shoes or path
I sometimes slip and fall on the hard pavement which I often prayed
Might be of a nature to give me a good sure footing
Remember I that must be ready at any moment to lose my life while in your service
And finally dear Master when my useful strength is gone
Don't turn me out to starve or freeze
Or sell me to some cruel owner who will slowly starve and torture me to death
But do Thou my Master take my life in the kindest way you can
And your God will reward you here and after
You wouldn't consider me irreverant if I ask this in the name of him
Who was born in a stable will you
Amen