HELP FOR AGED SEAMEN

Horowhenua Chronicle, 20 December 1911, Page 2

HELP FOR AGED SEAMEN

The subjoined metrical appeal for help on bohialf of tho Royal Alfred Merchant Seamen's Institution, London, reached us by yesterday's English mail:— To the people of the Matron, Which hath called the sea its own, We are sending forth this sageWill you make it widely known? It appeals to every Briton Wheresoever he may be, To assist the worn-out sailor When- too old to go to sea. He has watched through nights of peril, Toiled; and sweated at the winch; He has .gladly don© his duty Whero a landsman might well flinch: He has suffered thirst and hunger, Braved disaster round the Horn, And been stricken down with fever Jn the heats of Capricorn. In the chain that binds the 'Empire He has forged a mighty link; . What she would have done with- „ out him

England scarcely dares to think; Yet when toil-worn home returning From ibis labours from mankind, There is often want before him When he leaves the sea behind. Thvo's a worthy Institution— ' 'Royal Alfred" is its name, And our Sailor King, its Patron, Hath in public urged its claim; It- distributes wide its bounty, But the "waiting list" is longFunds are needed —will yon help us? Is the burden of 01.1 r song. A.M. Christinas, 1911. bmmmmw imnrftgau