Southampton Water

Smooth went our boat upon the summer seas,
  Leaving, for so it seemed, the world behind,
  Its sounds of mingled uproar: we, reclined
  Upon the sunny deck, heard but the breeze
  That o'er us whispering passed, or idly played
  With the lithe flag aloft. A woodland scene
  On either side drew its slope line of green,
  And hung the water's shining edge with shade.
  Above the woods, Netley! thy ruins pale
  Peered as we passed; and Vecta's azure hue 
  Beyond the misty castle met our view;
  Where in mid channel hung the scarce seen sail.
  So all was calm and sunshine as we went
  Cheerily o'er the briny element.
  Oh! were this little boat to us the world,
  As thus we wandered far from sounds of care,
  Circled by friends and gentle maidens fair,
  Whilst morning airs the waving pennant curled;
  How sweet were life's long voyage, till in peace
  We gained that haven still, where all things cease!