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THE BATTLE OF LA HOGUE 119
ADMIRAL RUSSELL'S SCOWERING THE FRENCH FLEET; OR, THE BATTLE AT SEA.
Thursday in the morn, the Ides of May,
Recorded be for ever the famous ninety-two. Brave Russel did discern by dawn of day
The lofty sails of France advancing now. ' All hands aloft, aloft; let English valour shine. Let fly a culvering, the signal of the line;
Let ev'ry hand supply his gun. Follow me, and you'll see
That the battle will be soon begun.'
Tourville o'er the main triumphant rowl'd
To meet the gallant Russel in combat on the deep; He led the noble train of heroes bold
To sink the English admiral at his feet. Now every valiant mind to victory does aspire; The bloody'fight's begun, the sea itself on fire,
And mighty Fate stood looking on Whilst a flood all of blood
Fill'd the port-holes of the Royal Sun.
Sulpher, smoak, and fire disturbed the air,
With thunder and wonder to fright the Gallick shore ; Their regulated bands stood trembling near
To see their lofty streamers now no more. At six a clock the Red the smiling victor led. To give a second blow, their total overthrow.
Now death and horror equal reign ; Now they cry, run, or dye !
Brittish colours ride the vanquish'd main.
See they run amaz'd thro' rocks on sands :
One danger they grasp at, to shun a greater fate. In vain they crie for aid to weeping lands ;
The nimphs and sea gods mourn their lost estate. For ever more adieu, thou dazling Royal Sun; From thy untimely end thy master's fate begun :
Enough, thou mighty god of war. Now we sing, ' God bless the King,
Let us drink to ev'ry English tar.' |
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