Books and other items printed in Gaelic from 1871 to 1900 > Gaelic bards, and original poems

16
MODERN GAELIC BARDS.
Then was it ordered, after choice had been made, that
every man should look after his own particular charge.
Immediately on this, there was a shout raised for a
steersman to take the helm, in these words
Let this broad heavy hero sit at the helm,
Powerful, ready;
No dash of the rising or falling sea
Must make him unsteady ;
A well-spread prop full of vigour,
Broad-seated, thick—
Stout and sure, and skilful and wary,
Cautious, yet quick.
Never once hasty while watching the canvas,
Which swift winds unfurl.
When he hears the shaggy ridge of the waters’
Roaring whirl,
He ’ll smartly keep her narrow head
Against the swirl.
He ’ll guide her so that she rocks or reels not
In her tack.
Ruling sail and sheet with eye that windward
Glances back;
He must not lose one finger’s fore-joint
Of the right course,
In spite of all the tumbling surges,
And their force.
He ’ll beat so boldly, when there’s need,
In the wind’s eye;
He ’ll make each oaken plank and fastening
Creak and cry.
He must not blanch or get confused
With doubts and fears—
Not should the sea’s grey-headed swell
Rise round his ears.
This stalwart seaman every terror
Must withstand;