United States Merchant Marine Academy - Midships Yearbook (Kings Point, NY)

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not printed at government expense

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“The rocky ledge runs far into the sea, And on its outer point, some miles away, The Lighthouse lifts its massive masonry, A pillar of fire by night, of cloud by day. “And as the evening darkens, lo! how bright, Through the deep purple of the twilight air. Beams forth the sudden radiance of its light With strange, unearthly splendor in the glare! “Not one alone; from each projecting cape And perilous reef along the oceans verge, Starts into life a dim, gigantic shape. Holding its lantern o’er the restless surge. “Steadfast, serene, immovable, the same Year after year, through all the silent night Burns on forevermore that quenchless flame, Shines on that inextinguishable light! “The startled waves leap over it; the storm Smites it with all the scourges of the rain, And steadily against its solid form Press the great shoulders of the hurricane. “The sea-bird wheeling round it, with the din Of wings and winds and solitary cries, Blinded and maddened by the light within. Dashes himself against the glare, and dies. “ ‘Sail on!’ it says, 'sail on, ye stately ships! And with your floating bridge the ocean span; Be mine to guard this light from all eclipse, Be yours to bring man nearer unto man!’ ” —HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW