3 APRIL 1953, Page 8

The Herb's Kitchen

A seal of holiness descends

Upon the kitchen floor,, Mrs. Bclaney and her friends Knit and discuss the war; Mrs. Belaney has a son— Had, I should say, perhaps—

Who deeds of gallantry has done, Him and some other chaps.

Into his hand the Seraphim Gave the destructive sword Beckoning; as they did, in him,

Creation's restless lord;, Fire and blood became his trade—

Gentle and clumsy one At home he was, but on parade Creation's awful son.

Mrs. Belaney feels the wall

Rustle with angel wings; Tears of a sacred nature fall Into the knitting things: Then begins tea, and cakes and pies

Muffle the ladies' chat;

Out of the shadows angel eyes Watch the encroaching fat.

GEORGE JOHNS1