A ship, which near had took its nodding stand, 195 200 While we of youth, descending to the main, Exact severe atonement of the Dane." He thus: and rushing through the billowy roars, With brawny arms his rapid journey oars; Divides with rolling chest the ridgy sea, 205 Lashing the bubbling liquid in his way. The boat he seized, and, meas'ring back the deep, Famed in the fields of main to urge the war. Twice seven years, in base pursuit of gain, He plowed the waves, the common foe of men; 220 Deck joined to deck, and man engaged with man, 225 Sword spoke with sword, and Scot transfixed his Dane. The smoking oak is covered o'er with gore, Till the whole pirate crew are now no more. The empty hull from wave to wave is tossed, Nods as it floats, the sport of every blast. 230 The Caledonian chiefs again pursue: As, in pursuit of doves, on rapid wings The darting hawk through air his journey sings; 235 240 245 The warrior spoke: the Caledonians sighed, And with returning prow the waves divide ; With swelling sail bring on the fatal shore, A mournful train of tear-distilling maids: 260 265 And give his dust the tribute of the eye. |