and now, behold, this Ranolf once again
Tossing, a Student-Sailor, on the main.

Here are some fragments written home from sea,
Two in his earlier Sailor life, and three
His later. Of his character they show
Some traits, perchance. Then pardon us, although
Beguiled, dear Reader, at this stage too long,
(Alas, for sins of inartistic Song!)
O prithee pardon, if with little skill
We fling these scraps together—skip who will!