The sun is sinking in the west,

And casts a reddening glow

O'er waters where the fleet comes in,

From where the storm winds blow.

O, little sails, make haste!

Each tiny bar is pressing home,

Each sailor peers across

The space that lies 'twixt ship and shore

Where green waves roll and toss,

O, little sails, make haste!

The waiting women on the shore

Each breathe the little prayer

That every anxious aching heart

Through all the waiting bears -

O, little sails, make haste!