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34
POEMS FOR THE SEA.
Just at the far horizon's verge,
A mountain mid the main,
As erst Philistia's giant tower'd
O'er Israel's tented plain,[1]
While hoarsely o'er the wave, it seemed
A threat of terror sped,
"Who thus, with foot of fire, hath dar'd
My realm of frost to tread?"
Yet on, the gallant steam-ship press'd
Her flaming heart beat high,
And boldly flow'd her fervid breath,
In volumes o'er the sky,
Though gathering at their chieftain's nod
A monster-train drew near,
With frowning helms, by Winter forg'd,
In panoply severe.
Then, as the watchful stars looked down
From their untroubled throne,
A rushing flood of crimson light
Spread forth from zone to zone,—
- ↑ David and Goliath, 1 Samuel 17.
