ORIGINAL POETRY.

New Zealander, Volume 8, Issue 603, 24 January 1852, Page 3

ORIGINAL POETRY.

IN COMMEMORATION OF THE FIRST TRIP OF THE FIRST STEAM-VESSEL BUILT IN AUCKLAND, JANUARY 19th, 1852. The white smoke wreaths, the waters rage, And chafe the unwonted power to feel, Scarce can repeating waves assuage The hissing of that fiery wheel, While hitting her broad bows in pride, The maiden vessel stems the tide. Good omen of our country's rise! Fair first-born of a mighty crew! Writing in fire before our eyes What we have done—have yet to do— Pointing our fancy to the day When many such may grace our quay. Oh wondrous power, the century's god, Dim-seen— unfathomable Steam! Before thy light the magian's rod Must pale its visionary gleam: The poet's harp, though strange it be, Must leave romance and sing of thee. No more in academic shade The heaven-born poet dares to hide; No more, where roses never fade, In fairy land must he abide He must take up his staff and shell, And if he warble, work as well. Hail then young venturer on the seas! Our welcome loud and heartfelt be, And oh may ev'ry prospering breeze That swells the ocean blow for thee; Governor Wynyard!! and again Echo reverberates the name.

St. George Auckland. January 20th, 1852.