Within the Golden Gate

AUTUMNAL skies were fair, and blue,

And soft and mild the morning breeze;

With sails unfurled—a joyous crew—

We sought Pacific's tranquil seas,

And entered there, a gate that stands,

Unbarred to ships of many lands.

And as we passed its portal grand,

Our hearts were glad, our spirits light,

And we rejoiced, and eager scanned

The scenes that came before our sight.

Near Alcatraz, an island bold,

We paused to hear this story told:

GRIM Alcatraz! Thou sentinel

That watch hath kept, thro' ages past,

Over this shining way to sea,

O where's the ship, with towering mast,

That bore my loved one far from me?

Thou sentry, with thy guarded wall,

Thou saw'st him pass and sail away,

To thread the trackless, distant sea.

Where rides the good "St. George" to-day.

That brings not back my love to me?