Well, then--our course is chosen--spread the sail--
Heave oft the lead, and mark the soundings well--
Look read more

Well, then--our course is chosen--spread the sail--
Heave oft the lead, and mark the soundings well--
Look to the helm, good master--many a shoal
Marks this stern coast, and rocks, where sits the Siren
Who, like ambition, lures men to their ruin.

And as great seamen, using all their wealth
And skills in Neptune's deep invisible paths,
In tall read more

And as great seamen, using all their wealth
And skills in Neptune's deep invisible paths,
In tall ships richly built and ribbed with brass,
To put a girdle round about the world.

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!

Skill'd in the globe and sphere, he gravely stands,
And, with his compass, measures seas and lands.

Skill'd in the globe and sphere, he gravely stands,
And, with his compass, measures seas and lands.

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.

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.

Thus far we run before the wind.

Thus far we run before the wind.

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.

Oh, I am a cook and a captain bold
And the mate of the Nancy brig,
And read more

Oh, I am a cook and a captain bold
And the mate of the Nancy brig,
And a bo'sun tight and a midshipmite
And the crew of the captain's gig.