Ballad of the Tempest

We were crowded in the cabin,
Not a soul would dare to sleep —
It was midnight on the waters,
And a storm was on the deep.
'T is a fearful thing in winter
To be shatter'd in the blast,
And to hear the rattling trumpet
Thunder, "Cut away the mast!"
So we shudder'd there in silence —
For the stoutest held his breath,
While the hungry sea was roaring,
And the breakers talked with Death.
As thus we sat in darkness,
Each one busy in his prayers —
"We are lost!" the captain shouted,
As he stagger'd down the stairs.
But his little daughter whisper'd,
As she took his icy hand,
"Isn't God upon the ocean,
Just the same as on the land?"
Then we kiss'd the little maiden.
And we spoke in better cheer,
And we anchor'd safe in harbor
When the morn was shining clear.