As near beauteous Boston lying, On the gently swelling flood, Without jack or pendant flying, Three ill-fated tea-ships rode. Just as glorious Sol was setting, On the wharf, a numerous crew, Sons of freedom, fear forgetting, Suddenly appeared in view. Armed with hammers, axe, and chisels, Weapons new for warlike deed, Towards the herbage-freighted vessels, They approached with dreadful speed. O'er their heads aloft in mid-sky, Three bright angel forms were seen; This was Hampden, that was Sidney, With fair Liberty between. "Soon," they cried, "your foes you'll banish, Soon the triumph shall be won; Scarce shall setting Phoebus vanish, Ere the deathless deed be done." Quick as thought the ships were boarded, Hatches burst and chests displayed; Axes, hammers help afforded; What a glorious crash they made. Squash into the deep descended, Cursed weed of China's coast; Thus at once our fears were ended; British rights shall ne'er be lost. Captains! once more hoist your streamers, Spread your sails, and plough the wave; Tell your masters they were dreamers, When they thought to cheat the brave. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...AUCTION: ANDERSON GALLERIES by LOUIS UNTERMEYER MENAPHON: SEPHESTIA'S [CRADLE] SONG TO HER CHILD by ROBERT GREENE LAST WORDS TO A DUMB FRIEND by THOMAS HARDY THE BALLAD OF DEAD LADIES by FRANCOIS VILLON |