But the endeavour for the selfsame ends, With the same hopes, and fears, and aspirations. Therefore I hope to join your seaside walk, Saddened, and mostly silent, with emotion; Not interrupting with intrusive talk The grand, majestic symphonies of ocean, Therefore I hope, as no unwelcome guest, At your warm fireside, when the lamps are lighted, To have my place reserved among the rest, Nor stand as one unsought and uninvited! BY THE SEASIDE. THE BUILDING OF THE SHIP. "BUILD me straight, O worthy Master! And with wave and whirlwind wrestle !" The merchant's word Delighted the Master heard; For his heart was in his work, and the heart Giveth grace unto every Art. A quiet smile played round his lips, As the eddies and dimples of the tide That steadily at anchor ride. And with a voice that was full of glee, He answered, 66 Ere long we will launch And first with nicest skill and art, That with a hand more swift and sure And eight round towers, like those that frown Beautiful they were, in sooth, The heir of his house, and his daughter's hand, “Thus,” said he, "we will build this ship! A goodly frame, and a goodly fame, Enraptured the young man heard; Her father's door, He saw the form of his promised bride. The sun shone on her golden hair, And her cheek was glowing fresh and fair, With the breath of morn and the soft sea-air. Like a beauteous barge was she, Still at rest on the sandy beach, Just beyond the billow's reach; But he Was the restless, seething, stormy sea! Ah, how skilful grows the hand That to the highest doth attain, And he who followeth Love's behest Thus with the rising of the sun Was the noble task begun, And soon throughout the shipyard's bounds Were heard the intermingled sounds Of axes and of mallets, plied With vigorous arms on every side; Plied so deftly and so well, |