Round those wild rocks half way to Bamborough Head;

For now the mightiest spring-tide of the year,

Following the magic of a maiden moon,

Had reached its height. More near, that sea which sobbed

In many a cave by Whitby’s winding coast,

Or died in peace on many a sandy bar

From river-mouth to river-mouth outspread,

They heard, and mused upon eternity

That circles human life. Gradual there rose

A softer strain and sweeter, making way