Heaving of the Lead

OR England when with favoring gale Our gallant ship up channel steered, And, scudding under easy sail, The high blue western land appeared; To heave the lead the seaman sprung, And to the pilot cheerly sung, "By the deep-nine !" Andbearing up to gain the port, Some well-known object kept in view- An abbey- tower, a harbor-fort, Or beacon to the vessel true; While oft the lead the seaman flung, And to the pilot cheerly sung, "By the mark-seven ! " MORNING And as the much-loved shore we near, With transport we behold the roof Where dwelt a friend or partner dear, Of faith and love a matchless proof. The lead once more the seaman flung, And to the watchful pilot sung, "Quarter less-five !" Now to her berth the ship draws nigh : We shorten sail-she feels the tide- " Stand clear the cable" is the cryThe anchor's gone; we safely ride.. The watch is set, and through the night Wehear the seamen with delight Proclaim-"All's well! "