Classic Poem

Like some northcoast adventurer of old
Upon a tempest-tossed and darkling sea
Guiding his troubled sail as dauntlessly
Through mist, through lashing wave, through dark, through cold,
As though the elements could not withhold
This spirit from its port of destiny
Whither it moves so steadfast and so free,
Fearless of shipwreck, confident and bold, —

Thus do I hail you, Captain, Commodore!
Watching your gallant prow, cutting the deep
And plunging onward to the farther shore.
Within your eyes that will not yield to sleep
There shines a Light, O helmsman at the fore!
And in your heart the ancient grandeurs keep.