Poem by Thomas John Dibdin

All’s Well

Deserted by the waning moon,
When skies proclaim night’s cheerless noon,
On tower, or fort, or tented ground,
The sentry walks his lonely round;
And should a footstep haply stray
Where caution marks the guarded way:
“Who goes there? Stranger, quickly tell.”
“A friend” – “The word.” “Good night;” “All’s well.”

Or sailing on the midnight deep, 
When weary messmates soundly sleep. 
The careful watch patrols the deck, 
To guard the ship from foes or wreck: 
And while his thoughts oft homewards veer,
Some friendly voice salutes his ear – 
“What cheer? Brother, quickly tell.” 
“Above” – “Below.” “Good night;” “All’s well.”

1. The Willow Tree
2. Fair Ellen
3. Hail to the Beam of Morning
4. The Fox and the Grapes

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