However wind and storm were rife

And stranded vessels perilled life.

“No! by the God who made this tongue!”

And up in angry force he sprung,—

“No!—never, while my head is warm,

However wild beat sea and storm,

Launch I a boat, one life to save,

If half creation finds a grave!”

A fearful oath!—I thought; and so

Thought others, for a murmur low