For, while intent the yawning decks to ease,
Filled ever and anon with rushing seas,
Some fatal billow with recoiling sweep
May whirl the helpless wretches in the deep.
No season this for counsel or delay;
Too soon th’ eventful moments haste away!
Here Perseverance, with each help of Art,
Must join the boldest efforts of the heart;
These only now their misery can relieve,
These only now a dawn of safety give.