This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1848. Excerpt: ... And the ravage of water, With shriek and with shout, And the flame's fearful slaughter: To those left on the ship they draw nigher and nigher, While gasp they for life from the wave and the fire. In one of the boats That gallantly floats To the rescue, with oars and with men Returns the brave mate, who was driven Away from the side Of the ship, by the tide: Where the fire burst forth in its rage, Now he cometh again to the cage Of the burning wreck: From the scorching deck, And the bows, the rigging and sprit, And the ropes and the booms where doth sit, Or hanging and lying, In agony crying For mercy from God, the poor fugitives there, Who wring their clasp'd hands, while their lips breathe a prayer, He standeth now ready, Bold, firm and steady, And taketh them off one by one: Would all others as he had so done The brave deeds of that day! Nor stands he alone Whom such courage hath shewn, For now many obey The same impulse of daring, and lend Their strong energies there, to defend The poor wretches from fire and wave, From the burning or deep ocean grave All ply every hand In each gallant band, In the boats that now throng to the scene; Though still danger is rife, Still hazard they life, 'Mong the surges and wreck, where are seen The remnants of those Whom the waters enclose, To hide the grim death, that hath been So busy;--but now Under the bow Of the fire ship, rideth a boat, Spite of danger from timbers that float, Each instant they rescue the old or the young: Then laden, return by the cable now swung, From the wreck of the Monarch of Ocean, To the gallant Affonso, with motion Of strong hands well nerv'd, and the strength Of men who have hearts, they at length With their efforts have won--Tho' nor yet have they done--A number of beings from death: St...