See, on her stern the waving stars—
Inured to blood, inured to wars,
Come, enter quick, my jolly tars,
To scourge these warlike Britons.
Here's grog enough—then drink a bout,
I know your hearts are firm and stout;
American blood will never give out,
And often we have proved it.
Though stormy oceans round us roll,
We'll keep a firm undaunted soul,
Befriended by the cheering bowl,
Sworn foes to melancholy:
When timorous landsmen lurk on shore,
'Tis ours to go where cannons roar—
On a coasting cruise we'll go once more,
Despisers of all danger;
And Fortune still, who crowns the brave,
Shall guard us over the gloomy wave;
A fearful heart betrays the knave—
Success to the Hyder Ali.
Philip Freneau.
The Hyder Ali sailed down the bay April 8, 1782, and met the Englishman near the capes. By skilful manœuvring, Barney was able to rake his antagonist; then, lashing fast, poured several broadsides in rapid succession into the enemy, who struck their colors at the end of thirty minutes.
SONG
ON CAPTAIN BARNEY'S VICTORY OVER THE SHIP GENERAL MONK
[April 8, 1782]