With ships the sea was sprinkled far and nigh, 
Like stars in heaven, and joyously it showed; 
Some lying fast at anchor in the road, 
Some veering up and down, one knew not why. 
A goodly vessel did I then espy 
Come like a giant from a haven broad; 
And lustily along the bay she strode, 
Her tackling rich, and of apparel high. 
The ship was nought to me, nor I to her, 
Yet I pursued her with a lover's look; 
This ship to all the rest did I prefer: 
When will she turn, and whither? She will brook 
No tarrying; where she comes the winds must stir: 
On went she, and due north her journey took.