The Life-Boat
" MAN the life-boat!" Thus the voices hoarsely sounding through the night Rouse to action those who, fearless, brave the elements to fight.
Fight for what? For home? For beauty? Riches ? Rank ? The warrior's crown ? Or midst ringing, echoing plaudits, strive they for the goal renown ? Strife is theirs. Midst crested billows, wind and rain, midst lightning's glare, Hail and tempest; surf that, hissing, echoes but one sound, "Despair!" These the dangers that they grapple when the cry for help rings high, Ready aye with noble manhood, or to succour, or to die.
And what guerdon for their labours? What reward for dangers past ? Children rescued; wives and husbands saved from death's devouring blast.
Theirs the recompense so lowly—"Good and faithful one, well done;" May it greet them, entering heaven, when their course on earth is run I English, men and English -women, y your fire- sides bright and warm, Hear this plea for those in peril—foundering in the raging storm.
By your children's happy faces, by the smiles of those you love, Give and aid the gallant life-boat. Give—your wealth is from above.
HERBERT GILLETT.