Classic Poem

BEN.

" Farewell, sweet Kate! " the sailor cry'd,
" War calls your Ben away;
" When peace returns I'll make my bride
" Sweet Kate of Invermay. "

KATE.

" Farewell, my Ben! " fair Kate reply'd,
" Since honour wills it so;
" May angels o'er thy fate preside,
" And shield thee from each foe. "

BEN.

" I thank thee, love! — and now no fear
" Can reach thy sailor's heart;
" (Save only one, my beauteous dear)
" 'Tis Kate, we now must part. "

KATE.

" Far be't from me to bid thee stay,
" When battle calls to arms!
" Britannia bids thee, Ben away,
" Quell Albion's dread alarms. "

BEN.

" She doth! — but must I leave my Kate
" Without one parting kiss;
" Forbid it Heav'n! — forbid it fate!
" Take this — and this — and this. "

She press'd her balmy lips to his,
And took a fond adieu;
He slies, returns, and crowns their bliss,
Serves love, and honour too.

Sweet fair, ne'er check the gallant youth,
When honour calls away;
So shall your love's be crown'd with truth,
Like those of Invermay.