“WITH SHIPS THE SEA WAS SPRINKLED FAR AND NIGH”

With Ships the sea was sprinkled far and nigh,

Like stars in heaven, and joyously it showed;

Some lying fast at anchor in the road,

Some veering up and down, one knew not why.

A goodly Vessel did I then espy

Come like a giant from a haven broad;

And lustily along the bay she strode,

Her tackling rich, and of apparel high.

This Ship was nought to me, nor I to her,

Yet I pursued her with a Lover's look;

This Ship to all the rest did I prefer:

When will she turn, and whither? She will brook

No tarrying; where She comes the winds must stir:

On went She, and due north her journey took.