The Canterbury Tales of Chaucer modernis'd by several hands. Publsh'd by Mr. Oggle |
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THE Shipman or Seaman, &c. |
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 | The Canterbury Tales of Chaucer |  |
26
THE Shipman or Seaman, &c.
By Mr. BETTERTON.
Then came a Dartmouth Seaman far from West,
A very aukward Rider at the Best.
A coarse Cloth Gown he wore, not long nor wide,
His Dagger in a Lace adorn'd his Side.
He knew those sultry Climates, where the Sun
Turn'd his Complexion to a dusky Brown.
To Company and Mirth he did incline,
Had swallow'd many a Draught of Bourdeaux Wine.
Kept an obedient Seaman's Conscience,
Held borrowing from his Owners no Offence.
If 'twas his Fate, to take a lucky Prize,
(For stoutly he wou'd fight) he was so Wise
To pick the best, which sent by Parcels home,
Little of Worth did to the Office come.
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Cou'd shun each Rock and Shallow in the Sea.
Had weather'd Tempests, in Engagements been,
'Scap'd many Dangers, many Countries seen.
Knew ev'ry Creek and Harbour on the Main,
Of England, Scotland, and the Coast of Spain.
In many Fights his Frigate much was fam'd,
The Magdalene of England it was nam'd.
| The Canterbury Tales of Chaucer | |