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THE MEETING OF THE SHIPS.
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And hands were linked, and answering eyes
With kindly meaning shone;
—Oh! brief and passing sympathies,
Like leaves together blown!
A little while such joy was cast
Over the deep's repose,
Till the loud singing winds at last
Like trumpet music rose.
And proudly, freely on their way
The parting vessels bore;
—In calm or storm, by rock or bay,
To meet—Oh! never more!
Never to blend in victory's cheer,
To aid in hours of woe:—
And thus bright spirits mingle here,
Such ties are formed below!
