For they say there's a Providence sits up aloft
To keep watch for the life of poor Jack.

For they say there's a Providence sits up aloft
To keep watch for the life of poor Jack.

O pilot! 'tis a fearful night,
There's danger on the deep.

O pilot! 'tis a fearful night,
There's danger on the deep.

A strong nor'wester's blowing, Bill!
Hark! don't ye hear it roar now?
Lord help 'em, how I read more

A strong nor'wester's blowing, Bill!
Hark! don't ye hear it roar now?
Lord help 'em, how I pities them
Unhappy folks on shore now!

Though pleas'd to see the dolphins play,
I mind my compass and my way.

Though pleas'd to see the dolphins play,
I mind my compass and my way.

Well, then--our course is chosen--spread the sail--
Heave oft the lead, and mark the soundings well--
Look read more

Well, then--our course is chosen--spread the sail--
Heave oft the lead, and mark the soundings well--
Look to the helm, good master--many a shoal
Marks this stern coast, and rocks, where sits the Siren
Who, like ambition, lures men to their ruin.

Soon shall thy arm, unconquered steam, afar
Drag the slow barge, or drive the rapid car;
Or read more

Soon shall thy arm, unconquered steam, afar
Drag the slow barge, or drive the rapid car;
Or on wide waving wings expanded bear
The flying chariot through the fields of air.

The winds and waves are always on the side of the ablest
navigators.

The winds and waves are always on the side of the ablest
navigators.

Oh, I am a cook and a captain bold
And the mate of the Nancy brig,
And read more

Oh, I am a cook and a captain bold
And the mate of the Nancy brig,
And a bo'sun tight and a midshipmite
And the crew of the captain's gig.

There's a sweet little cherub that sits up aloft,
To keep watch for the life of poor Jack.

There's a sweet little cherub that sits up aloft,
To keep watch for the life of poor Jack.