In dark and storm ere light of day
The river pilot is under way,
When Trees outspreading branches groan,
Rustling reed and deep sea moan,
Black fleeting cloud a moon to hide,
On came the flow and rushing tide,
Far out a bounding coaster ploughs
Waves breaking high upon her Bows,
Mighty scene of strength and wonder
Clashing loud like mountain thunder,
The river pilot has sailed the seas
Storm to him a freshening breeze,
Rounding the headland, measured stroke,
In an Oilskin Coat, A heart of Oak,
Shower and shadow year to year
Through the dark, through the clear,
Tracing the deep, Perch to Perch,
Over the shallows a Berth to reach.
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