With Ships The Sea Was Sprinkled Far And Nigh

Composed 1806.--Published 1807

Placed among the "Miscellaneous Sonnets."--ED.

With Ships the sea was sprinkled far and nigh,[A] 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.[B] 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.[C]