Fugitive Poetry. 1600–1878/The Sailor's Evening Hymn

The Sailor's Evening Hymn.

Long the sun hath gone to rest,Dimmed is now the deepening west,And the sky has lost the hueThat the rich clouds o'er it threw; Lonely on the pale blue skyGleam faint streaks of crimson dye.Gloriously the evening starLooks upon us from afar;Aid us o'er the changeful deep,     God of power;Bless the sailor's ocean-sleep     At midnight's hour.

On the stilly twilight airWe would breathe our solemn prayer,—Bless the dear ones of our home,Guide us through the wild wave's foam,To the light of those dear eyes,Where our heart's best treasure lies,To the love in one fond breast,That unchanging home of rest!Hear her when, at eventide,     She kneels to prayThat God would bless, defend, and guide,     Those far away!

Now the moon hath touched the sea,And the waves, all tremblingly.Throw towards heaven their silvery spray,Happy in the gladdening ray;Thus, Redeemer, let Thy loveShine upon us from above:Touched by Thee, our hearts will rise,Grateful towards the glowing skies;Guard us, shield us, mighty Lord,     Thou dost not sleep;Still the tempest with Thy word,     Rule the deep!