Classic Poem

Come, stand upon the deck, and fish for men!
Let down the haul, it is Saint Andrew's Day:
Take we the allotted side, and watch for prey!
We toil all night for nought! — we cast again:
They who are fain a multitude to hold,
Break their smooth gear, and not a fish enfold!
The meek and patient catch not: tell me then
What is our vision? — what the crafty toil
Whereby to win the draught and share the spoil?
It was on such a day — the where and when —
Empty the basket — desolate and bare
The ship of Galilee — yet, faithful there,
The brethren watch'd the deep with patient ken —
Simon and Andrew sate, and calm on board
Mended their nets — and waited for the Lord!