A PRAYER BY THE SEA.

I saw the ships on a windy sea In the light of the morning’s gold; And the shout of the sailors came to me Like songs from the days of old. Wild waves leaped up on the crags and beat On the edge of the rock-bound shore; And the thought of a coming time was sweet, When the sea should be no more. No more, no more shall mothers and wives Dream of loves that the blue wastes hide, No more shall the vigorous hearts and lives Be flung to the wind and tide! Oh, Father, follow the gallant ships Through the light of the morning pale! Thou hearest the prayer of the loving lips, Thy mercy never can fail. And guide us all to some haven blest Where never a tempest is known; For life is sad, and the secret of rest Is hidden with Thee alone.