16 DECEMBER 1916, Page 13

POETRY.

DECEMBER, 1916.

0 GOD of battles, o'er the din of war

Hear us we pray, the wives of those who lie Slain on the ravaged fields of France; who gave Themselves for England, freely gave their lives To rid the world of lust and cruelty.

Let not dissension here within our gates Weaken our purpose. 0 take not in vain Those men we gave. Let not their children feel The shame of any armistice—give strength And union, Lord, to those who guide our England, Until the stubborn fight is won—until Atonement for each drop of blood is made.

For thus alone may all our sons enjoy The Peace their parents won by blood and tears.

L. S. R.