University of Virginia Library

Search this document 

collapse section 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
collapse section 
 I. 
 II. 
 III. 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
THE AIR-RAIDS
  
collapse section 
 I. 
 II. 
 III. 
 IV. 
 V. 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  


77

THE AIR-RAIDS

[_]

In reply to a recent letter in the papers bidding us pluck up courage from—what? From the experience of a gaming-table!

Breathe not of Chance amid this roar of strife;
Nor bid men nerve their spirit by some thought
Of Monte Carlo's gambling. Nay, what's caught
From happenings there and calculations, rife
With ill excitement, in this hour of life
Or death to calm us, whilst the battle's fought
High in the moon-lit heaven? Vain solace brought
To steady self or server, child or wife!
One stay alone avails—'tis quiet prayer,
'Tis Duty's call to manhood in complete
Surrender to a Presence calm and near
O'er all hell's infamy and man's deceit,
Though hideous engines hurtle through the air,
Scattering foul death but up yon neighbouring street.
November 26th, 1917.