God of War, I have done my work, I have plowed the Seven Seas;
Now give me rest! For I 've need of rest, more than any of these.
Grim they be, and full of strength, ready to fight their kind,
But I have led them 'round the world—they have followed behind!

Built for battle, they fought their way when waves were black with storm,
They laughed at Neptune when he roared, their hearts with trust were warm,
For I, the shuttle that weaves the web of safety 'round the fleet,
Have done my work as it should be done, and now my task 's complete.

Where they have done ten thousand miles, of thousands I 've done a score.
Back and forth, by seas o'erwhelmed, courier-ship—and more—
Watching and guiding, never at rest, I was the hand in the night
To feel if the way were clear for them—their sense of touch and sight.

Racked and strained in every bolt, yet true to my inmost soul,
I 've led them home! Let Neptune rave, he has not levied toll!
They ride to-day in the Roads, flag-trimmed, while I, at last am free
To take my ease, my hard-earned ease, if you but grant it me!

God of War, I have done my work, I have followed the Seven Seas;
Now give me rest, for I 've need of rest more than any of these;
They ride at anchor at home, at last—peers of their fighting kind,
But I have led them every mile, while they—they followed behind!