One night came on a hurricane The sea was mountains rolling, When Barney Buntline turned his quid, And said to Billy Bowline: "A strong nor'wester's blowing, Bill, Hark! Don't you hear it roar now? Lord help them! How I pities all Unhappy folks on shore now. "Foolhardy chaps that live in towns; What dangers they are all in, And now lie shaking in their beds For fear the roof should fall in. Poor creatures, how they envy us And wishes, I've a notion,* (*Also seen: "And wish, as I've a notion...") For our good luck in such a storm To be upon the ocean. "And as for them who're out all day On business from their houses, And late at night are coming home To cheer their babes and spouses; While you and I, Bill, on the deck Are comfortably lying, My eyes! What tiles and chimney-pots Around their heads are flying! And very often have we heard How men are killed and undone By overturns of carriages, By thieves and fires in London. We know what risks all landsmen run From noblemen to tailors; Then Bill, let us thank Providence That you and I are sailors."