11 MAY 1929, Page 20

Poetry

Sea, Nocturne

LIGHTS on the sea-line go, Vibrating to and fro,

Errant, mysterious, low, Seen bright, seen dwindled ; But that one steadfast spark That cleaves the drooping dark, For what all fortunate barque Is it enkindled?

With far flung beam it stands, On rough and perilous lands, Warning with upraised hands The grey shipmasters ; Why did no beacon free Flare out on life's broad sea, To warn and presage me - Of Love's disasters ? -

J.A_VES GRANT,