The Sailor's Adieu

Distress me with those tears no more, One kiss my love and then adieu; The last boat destin'd for the shore, Waits dearest girl alone for you: Soon, soon before the light wind borne, Shall I be sever'd from your sight; You left the lonely hours to mourn, And weep thro' many a stormy night.

When far along the restless deep, In trim array the ship shall steer, Your form, remembrance still shall keep, Your worth, affection still revere: And with the distance from your eyes, My love for you shall be increas'd, As to the pole the needle lies, And farthest off, still varies least.

While round the bowl the cheerful crew, Shall sing of triumphs on the main, My thoughts shall fondly turn to you, Of you alone shall be my strain: And when we've bow'd the leaguing foe, Revengeful for our country's wrong, Returning home my heart shall shew No fiction grac'd my artless song.