Asleep in the Deep

A deep ocean song for a deep bass voice, 1897.
words by Arthur J. Lamb
music by Henry W. Petrie

This song was already popular by the start of the Spanish-American War in 1898. It was appropriate for the sailors as that war spread over the globe.


The sheet music:


Accompaniment by James Pitt-Payne:


Lyrics

  1. Stormy the night and the waves roll high
    Bravely the ship doth ride
    Hark while the light-house bell’s solemn cry
    Rings o’er the sullen tide
    There on the deck see two lovers stand
    Heart to heart-beating and hand in hand
    Tho’ death be near, she knows no fear
    While at her side is one of all most dear

Refrain
Loudly the bell in the old tower rings
Biding us list to the warning it brings
Sailor, take care! Sailor, take care!
Danger is near thee, Beware! Beware! Beware! Beware!
Many brave hearts are asleep in the deep, so beware! beware!
Many brave hearts are asleep in the deep, so beware! beware!

  1. What of the storm when the night is o’er?
    There is no trace or sign!
    Save where the wreckage hath strewn the shore
    Peaceful the sun doth shine
    But when the wild raging storm did cease
    Under the billows two hearts found peace
    No more to part, no more of pain
    The bell may now toll its warning in vain

Sung here by Fred Feild: