19 NOVEMBER 1937, Page 27

LOVE'S CURE

I WAS loved, each day I knew Thought more kindly towards me grew, Till at last the soul betrays Its trembling secret in its gaze.

Ah, what tenderness was there, What unconcealed and steadfast fire ; All that lip dared not decree Her upraised eyes said silently.

I turned aside, I gave the lie To the least breath, to the least sigh. Then one day, amazed, she saw A look less carefree than before.

In that instant all was changed, Her heart as quick against me ranged, Now, heartwhole, she can despise The speechless homage in my eyes.

MONK GIBBON.