I
LONGING
Oh, to be out on the Ocean! where the waves beat wild and free,
Where there's naught 'twixt the sky and billows but the boat, and you, and me!
Where the winds with their touch caress us, and the sea-gulls sweep on high,
And the bell, from its rocky outpost, sends forth its warning cry!
Oh, to be out on the Ocean! with the cold, salt spray to dash
Athwart the bows of the vessel, and foaming, to merrily lash
The boat to freer effort, as she plunges a-thrill with life
O'er the crest of the bounding billows and above their surging strife!
Oh, to be out on the Ocean! with no heart 'twixt you and me!