Mysha-

My first guess is that "to the south'ard of St. Paul" is a reference to a pile of rocks in the Atlantic known as St. Paul Rocks.

"Sweethearts on the tow-rope, with a pull there's no denying" is a direct reference to the sailor's fancy that when one is homeward bound, the ship is drawn faster by the sailortown gals pulling on an imaginary tow-rope.

"Stamp and go" is a reference to a way that sailors march down the deck with a line to haul up a yardarm or a heavy sail.

It's easy to fit tunes for CFS poems but don't rush it. Try out a number of them and think about the poem. But good luck with your work. I think it's an interesting poem but be warned her poems are addictive. ;~)

Cheerily,
Charley Noble