Thus, I steer my bark, and sail
On even keel, with gentle gale.

Thus, I steer my bark, and sail
On even keel, with gentle gale.

Though pleas'd to see the dolphins play,
I mind my compass and my way.

Though pleas'd to see the dolphins play,
I mind my compass and my way.

Some love to roam o'er the dark sea's foam,
Where the shrill winds whistle free.

Some love to roam o'er the dark sea's foam,
Where the shrill winds whistle free.

What though the sea be calm? trust to the shore,
Ships have been drown'd, where late they danc'd before.

What though the sea be calm? trust to the shore,
Ships have been drown'd, where late they danc'd before.

We have ploughed the vast ocean in a fragile bark.
[Lat., Nos fragili vastum ligno sulcavimus aequor.]

We have ploughed the vast ocean in a fragile bark.
[Lat., Nos fragili vastum ligno sulcavimus aequor.]

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.

Thus far we run before the wind.

Thus far we run before the wind.

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!

There's a sweet little cherub that sits up aloft,
To keep watch for the life of poor Jack.

There's a sweet little cherub that sits up aloft,
To keep watch for the life of poor Jack.