On Board a Jersey Steamer

Long had I watch'd, and, summon'd by the ray
From those small window-lights, that dipt and bow'd
Down to the glimpsing waters, made my way
On deck, while the sun rose without a cloud;
The brazen plates upon the steerage-wheel
Flash'd forth; the steersman's face came full in view
Found at his post, he met the bright appeal
Of morning-tide, and answer'd ' I am true!'
Then back again into my berth I crept,
And lay awhile, at gaze, with upward eye,
Where gleams and shadows from the ocean swept,
And flicker'd wildly o'er the dreaming fly,
That clung to the low ceiling. Then I slept
And woke, and sought once more the sea and sky.