5 DECEMBER 1914, Page 28

POETRY.

THE DEBT UNPAYABLE.

WHAT have I given, Bold sailor on the sea, In earth or heaven, That you should die for me P What can I give, 0 soldier, leaf and brave, Long as I live, To pay the life you gave P What tithe or part Can I return to thee, 0 stricken heart,

That thou shouldst break for me P Tlu wind of Death

For you has-slain life's flowers, It withereth (God grant !) all weeds in ours.

F. W. BOURDILLON.