The Sailor's Return

The busy crew their sails unbending, The ship in harbour safe arriv'd, Jack Oakum (all his perils ending) Had made the port where Kitty liv'd.

His rigging—no one dare attack it, Tight fore and aft, above, below: Long-quarter'd shoes, check shirt, blue jacket, And trowsers like the driven snow.

His honest heart with pleasure glowing, He flew like light'ning to the side; Scarce had he been a boat's length rowing, Before his Kitty he espy'd.

A flowing pennant gaily flutter'd From her neat made hat of straw; Red was her cheek when first she utter'd, It was her sailor that she saw.

And now the gazing crew surround her, While secure from all alarms, Swift as a ball from a nine-pounder, They dart into each other's arms.