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.”