An Evening at Sea

More pleasing far, than all the glare of day, The evening mild invites the muse's lay. Our gallant ship, with ev'ry turgid sail, Glides smoothly on before the pressing gale: Whilst the full moon, fair regent of the night, Pours o'er the sea a flood of silver light: No noise is heard except the pleasing sound, Of waves that roll and swell and break around; Ever responsive to the watchman's song, Who treads the deck, and trills his ditties long With voice melodious, and with heart so true, To lovely Nancy, or to black ey'd Sue.

Far on a distant shore, with curious eye, Our anxious friends consult th' uncertain sky; Longing they look, and with impatience burn, To see in safety our tall bark return. On that blest period we with no less joy, Our eager hopes our constant thoughts employ. Haste happy day! when with sincere delight Our hands shall join; and social hearts unite.