When no rough waves upon the bosom ride,

But the keel cuts, nor rises on the tide;

Safe from the stream the nearer gunwale stands,

Where playful children trail their idle hands:

Or strive to catch long grassy leaves that float

On either side of the impeded boat;

What time the moon arising shows the mud,

A shining border to the silver flood:

When, by her dubious light, the meanest views,

Chalk, stones, and stakes, obtain the richest hues;