Thus they lament the consequence severe,

Where perils unallayed by Hope appear:

Long pondering in their minds each feared event,

At last to furl the courses they consent;

That done, to reef the mizen next agree,

And try beneath it sidelong in the sea.

Now down the mast the yard they lower away,

Then jears and topping-lift secure belay;

The head, with doubling canvass fenced around,

In balance near the lofty peak they bound: