4 JULY 1958, Page 31

The Good Life

Nothing of profit to be got So poor-bare to wind and to rain, His spirit gone to patch his boot, • The hermit returned to the world again.

'Revelation's a burden not to be borne Save by square-shouldered self-respect.' But when that latter jaunted bedecked His vanity was of apparent horn.

'Quiet enough at last I have won, My body relieved of rag and of ache : Only a plump, cuffed citizen Gets enough quiet to hear God speak.'

Loud he prayed then; but late or early, Never a murmur came to his need Save 'I'd be delighted!' and 'Yours sincerely,' And 'Thank you very much indeed!'