Part 16 (1/2)

Landward floats the apparition-- ”Is it, CAN it be the same?”

Frantic cries of recognition Shout a long-lost vessel's name!

III.

Years ago had she departed-- Castled p.o.o.p and gilded stern; Weeping women, broken-hearted, Long had waited her return.

When the midnight sun wheeled downwards, But to kiss the ocean's verge-- When the noonday sun, a moment Peeped above the Wintry surge,

IV.

Childless mothers, orphaned daughters, From the seaward-facing crag, Vainly searched the vacant waters For that unreturning flag!

But, suspense and tears are ended, Lo! it floats upon the breeze!

Ne'er from eager hearts ascended Thankful prayers as warm as these.

V.

See the good s.h.i.+p proudly rounding That last point that blocks the view; ”Strange! no answering cheer resounding From the long home-parted crew!”

Past the harbour's stony gateway, Onwards borne by sucking tides, Tho' the light wind faileth--straightway Into port she safely glides.

VI.

Swift, as by good angels carried, Right and left the news has spread.

Wives long widowed-yet scarce married-- Brides that never hoped to wed, From a hundred pathways meeting Crowd along the narrow quay, Maddened by the hope of meeting Those long counted cast away.

VII.

Soon a crowd of small boats flutter O'er the intervening s.p.a.ce, Bearing hearts too full to utter Thoughts that flush the eager face!

See young Eric foremost gaining-- (For a father's love athirst!) Every nerve and muscle straining, But to touch the dear hand FIRST.

VIII.

In the s.h.i.+p's green shadow rocking Lies his little boat at last, Wherefore is the warm heart knocking At his side, so loud and fast?

”What strange aspect is she wearing, Vessel once so taut and trim?

Shout!--MY heart has lost its daring; Comrades, search!--MY eyes are dim.”

IX.

Sad the search, and fearful finding!

On the deck lay parched and dry Men--who in some burning, blinding Clime--had laid them down to die!

Hands--prayer--clenched--that would not sever, Eyes that stared against the sun, Sights that haunt the soul for ever, Poisoning life--till life is done!

X.

Strength from fear doth Eric gather, Wide the cabin door he threw-- Lo! the face of his dead father, Stern and still, confronts his view!

Stately as in life he bore him, Seated--motionless and grand, On the blotted page before him Lingers still the livid hand!