In countless grand War-pieces there
The green seas foamed with gallant blood:
The skies blazed high with flame and fear,
The tall masts toppled to the flood.
But ever, 'mid red rage and glow
Of each tremendous Ocean fight,
Safe, by the strength of those below
The flag of England floated bright!
"Ah, dear, brave souls!" she said, "'tis good
To be a British girl and claim
Some drops, too, of such splendid blood,
Some distant share of deathless fame! "
"Yet, still I think of what tears rained
From tender French and Spanish eyes
For all those glorious days we gained.
Oh! the hard price of victories!"
"Come then!" I said: "witness one fight
