The Pilgrim Fathers

Lo, in a rude hulk, with no cargo save Hope!-
With a prow uplifted against the wave,
And a mast of Faith! Behold,
Over the darksome waters they set their way,
Each speeding the barque with a sail spread,
A white pure sail, each a great Hope
Spread against the vasts.
And lo, tossed, tossed as an atom upon
The waters, the great lolling-lipped sea,
Let it roll upon its throat,
Spatting it forth upon the high wave,
Letting it sink to depths. Behold, behold,
Did the hand of God pluck it forth and lead it
Like a beacon light across the chartless way;
And He before them went, clothing the shore
In verdure, uttering His mercy in fruits.
And when they had come unto the spot,
They knelt in adoration, not before
The culmination of their hopes,
But before the mystery God had wrought.
And lo, in their gratitude did they
Sow the seed for a coming host!