The Lifeboat

George R. Sims

Been out in the lifeboat often? Ay, ay, sir, oft enough.

When it's rougher than this? Lor' bless you! this ain't what we calls rough!

It's when there's a gale a-blowin', and the waves run in and break

On the shore with a roar like thunder and the white cliffs seem to shake;

When the sea is a hell of waters, and the bravest holds his breath

As he hears the cry for the lifeboat -- his summons maybe to death --

That's when we call it rough, sir; but, if we can get her afloat,

There's always enough brave fellows ready to man the boat...