We left Manila Jan. 20th, with great regret. We were taking leave of
valued friends, besides bidding adieu to scenes of interest which had
not been surpassed in our experience. We had reached the eastern limit
of our long voyage; we were to turn and find our way to the western
continent. Objects of thrilling interest were yet to be passed. But
how could we help feeling the need of special assistance in the great
undertaking of going round the other half of the globe? These words
came to me, and some lines were suggested by them:
“When the even was come he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto
the other side.” Mark iv. 25.
They went, and as they sailed
A storm came down upon the lake;
It made the boldest spirits quake;
Their faith forsook them, so their courage failed.
He on a pillow slept;
The stormy waters waked not Him.
But prayer had power to break the dream
Which through the tempest Him asleep had kept.
There on Gadara’s shore
Hell’s sullen legion knew his form;
He and the twelve, escaped the storm,
Enrage their spiteful enemies the more.
He speaks, the gale goes down;
The legion at his bidding flee;
The maniac finds recovery
And spreads abroad the Nazarene’s renown.
We leave what may betide,
Saviour! to thy Almighty power.
So, trusting in thy love each hour,
We will pass over to the other side.