1 FEBRUARY 1913, Page 17

POETRY.

YOUTH'S DEBT.

WHEN in the pretty wood

The larches spurtle red for the year's turning, Then, in men's moving blood, Sweet April does set frolic fires a-burning.

But now, since the trees stand Naked and deep asleep, yet natheless yearning For the spring's kindling band, Let youth go forth, and set the woods a-burning.

Such quick fire is in youth (And this youth knows, having no other learning), That where it moves, in truth, Its touch shall set the dead earth's soul a-burning.

'Tis good all debts to pay; So let youth thank the sweet year for his turning, And newly every day Go forth, go forth, to set the woods a-burning.

ROSE MACALTLkY.