  Love launch'd a gallant little craft, Complete with every rope; In golden words was painted aft— "The Cupid, Captain Hope." Pleasure was rated second-mate, And Passion made to steer; The guns were handed o'er to Fate, To Impulse sailing-gear. Merrily roved the thoughtless crew Amidst the billows' strife; But soon a sail bore down,—all knew 'Twas Captain Reason's "Life." And Pleasure left, though Passion said He'd guard her safe from all harms. 'Twas vain; for Fate ramm'd home the lead, While Love prepared the small-arms. A storm arose! The canvass now Escaped from Impulse' hand, While headstrong Passion dash'd the prow Swift on a rocky strand. "All's lost!" each trembling sailor cried; "Bid Captain Hope adieu!" But in his life-boat Reason hied To save the silly crew. Impulse the torrents overwhelm, But Pleasure 'scaped from wreck; Love, making Reason take the helm, Chain'd Passion to the deck. "I thought you were my foe; but now," Said Love, "we'll sail together; Reason, henceforth through life shalt thou My pilot be for ever!" |
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