WITH ships the sea was sprinkled far and nigh, br Like stars in heaven, and joyously it showed; br Some lying fast at anchor in the road, br Some veering up and down, one knew not why. br A goodly vessel did I then espy br Come like a giant from a haven broad; br And lustily along the bay she strode, br Her tackling rich, and of apparel high. br The ship was nought to me, nor I to her, br Yet I pursued her with a lover's look; br This ship to all the rest did I prefer: br When will she turn, and whither? She will brook br No tarrying; where she comes the winds must stir: br On went she, and due north her journey took.