XI

They took us aboard: the crew were gentle, the captain kind;

But I was the lonely slave of an often-wandering mind;

For whenever a rougher gust might tumble a stormier wave,

'O Stephen,' I moan'd, 'I am coming to thee in thine Ocean-grave.'

And again, when a balmier breeze curl'd over a peacefuller sea,

I found myself moaning again 'O child, I am coming to thee.'