Champions of the fleet

by Edward Fraser

And Britain’s thunder rule the wat’ry world.

If aught of prescience to the Muse belong,

Soon, soon, the scenes that animate her song,

In glowing colours shall salute your eyes,

And Heav’n shall bid th’ auspicious morn arise;

When France and Spain shall be again subdued,

And your “brave leader’s” victories renew’d.

Then, to reward your persevering toils,

With honours crown’d—enrich’d with hostile spoils—

(Her bravest sons—her guardian sailors’ friend)