For the deed was done past set of sun
When the stars were hid from sight.

"The schooner's kedge to a rocky ledge,
By a hempen cable tied,
With silent stealth, for the raiders' health,
Was lowered overside.

"Then with muffled oars they reached the shores
Near a crowded rookery;
Where the voice of seals, in loud appeals,
Drowned the moan of wind and sea.

"There were clubbed ten score and some dozens more
Of the seals which in panic came
Like frightened sheep before the sweep
Of the raiders' far-flung chain;

"For they took their stand, where the rocky land
Slopes down to the surf-worn beach,
To intercept the herd that swept
Like a torrent, the sea to reach.

"Their dories lay in a tiny bay
On a bit of sandy shore;
And they loaded seals by heads or heels
Till the boats would hold no more.

"On many a trip to the little ship
The skiffs went back and fore,