THE SHEPHERD OF THE SEAS

From Raleigh's Devon hills the misty sea

Climbs ever westward till it meets the sky,

And silently the white-fleeced ships go by,

And mount and mount up the long azure lea,

Peaceful as sheep at night that placidly

Climb the tall downs to quiet pastures high,

Assured no foes dare lurk, no dangers lie

Where still abides their shepherd's memory.

Well did men name him “Shepherd of the Seas,”

Who knew so well his shepherd's watch to keep,

Driving the Spanish wolves with noble rage:

Forsaking Pomp and Power and Beds-of-ease

To herd his mighty flock through every Deep

And make of every sea their common pasturage.