Amidst the world of waves so stands serene
Britannia's isle, the Ocean's stately queen;
In vain the nations have conspir'd her fall,
Her trench the sea, and fleets her floating wall;
Defenceless barks, her powerful navy near,
Have only waves and hurricanes to fear.
What bold invader, or what land oppress'd
Hath not her anger quell'd, her aid redress'd?
Say, where have e'er her union-crosses sail'd,
But much her arms, her justice more prevail'd?
Her labours are to plead th' Almighty's cause,
Her pride to teach th' untam'd barbarian laws:
Who conquers, wins by brutal strength the prize;
But 'tis a godlike work to civilize.