Into this world we come like ships,

Launched from the docks and stocks and slips,

For fortune fair or fatal.

—Thomas Hood.

O Neptune! You may save me if you will; you may sink me if you will; but whatever happens I shall keep my rudder true.

—Seneca’s “Pilot.”

Lowly faithful, banish fear,

Right onward sail unharmed;

The port, well worth the voyage, is near,

And every wave is charmed.