10 MARCH 1950, Page 20

Small Promises

A KINGCUP or two is all that I've seen

In this cold spring world, with its easterly hiss. No doubt if I searched in the mud, I could find A companion, maybe an odd celandine

With half-frozen petals streaked yellow and green. But still, I'm content with one blossom, for this Is a,promise enough, just caught in the ditch; To warm my old heart, and make the month rich, Though an icicle hangs in the roof of my mind.

RICHARD PRURCH.