Poems (Jackson)/Bon Voyage
BON VOYAGE.
HERE 'S not an hour but from some sparkling beachGo joyful men, in fragile ships to sail,By unknown seas to unknown lands. They hailThe freshening winds with eager hope, and speechOf wondrous countries which they soon will reach.Left on the shore, we wave our hands, with pale,Wet cheeks, but hearts that are ashamed to quail,Or own the grief which selfishness would teach.O Death, the fairest lands beyond thy seaLie waiting, and thy barks are swift and stanchAnd ready. Why do we reluctant launch?And when our friends their heritage have claimedOf thee, and entered on it, rich and free,Oh, why are we of sorrow not ashamed?