XXX

To kneeling Worshippers no earthly floor

Gives holier invitation than the deck

Of a storm-shattered Vessel saved from Wreck

( When all that Man could do avail'd no more )

By him who raised the Tempest and restrains:

Happy the crew who this have felt, and pour

Forth for his mercy, as the Church ordains,

Solemn thanksgiving. Nor will they implore

In vain who, for a rightful cause, give breath

To words the Church prescribes aiding the lip

For the heart's sake, ere ship with hostile ship

Encounters, armed for work of pain and death.

Suppliants! the God to whom your cause ye trust

Will listen, and ye know that He is just.