Boat Song

O'er th' unsteady wavelets
I my boat sped,
Heard the crane's wing fluttering
Over my head;
Thou, heaven's pilgrim, flying
O'er land and sea,
Would it were my privilege
To fly with thee.

Wisely art thou seeking
Some fairer clime,
Springtide's vernal beauties,
Summer's bright time;
Thy blest track I follow,
With thee I roam,
Seek a better country
And a sweet home.

Seek a home of sweetness
'Neath heaven's blue,
Where no winter darkens,
No noisome dew:
Where are lovely rainbow's
Made by hope bright,
Morning waking morning,
Glorious in light.

Thro' the verdant branches,
Soft west-winds sigh;
Near my hut a streamlet
Glides gently by.
Boat! may God be with thee—
Thou stormy strand!
See my sweet one calls me,
Waving her hand.

O'er th' unsteady wavelets,
I my boat sped,
Heard the crane's wing fluttering
Over my head;
Fly, thou heavenly pilgrim,
O'er earth and sea,
But my fate forbids me
To fly with thee.