Charles Dibdin

In every mess I find a friend,
In every port a wife.

In every mess I find a friend,
In every port a wife.

For though his body's under hatches,
His soul has gone aloft.

For though his body's under hatches,
His soul has gone aloft.

For they say there's a Providence sits up aloft
To keep watch for the life of poor Jack.

For they say there's a Providence sits up aloft
To keep watch for the life of poor Jack.

His form was of the manliest beauty,
His heart was kind and soft,
Faithful, below, he did read more

His form was of the manliest beauty,
His heart was kind and soft,
Faithful, below, he did his duty;
But now he's gone aloft.

A strong nor'wester's blowing, Bill;
Hark! don't ye hear it roar now?
Lord help 'em, how I read more

A strong nor'wester's blowing, Bill;
Hark! don't ye hear it roar now?
Lord help 'em, how I pities them
Unhappy folks on shore, now.