Steamers

Like black plunging dolphins with red bellies, The steamers in herds Swim through the choppy breakers On this day of winds and clouds. Wallowing and plunging, They seek their path, The smoke of their snorting Hangs in the sky.

Like black plunging dolphins with red bellies, The steamers pass, Flapping their propellers Salt with the spray. Their iron sides glisten, Their stays thrash: Their funnels quiver With the heat from beneath.

Like black plunging dolphins with red bellies, The steamers together Dive and roll through the tumult Of green hissing water.

These are the avid of spoil, Gleaners of the seas, They loom on their adventure Up purple and chrome horizons.