7 JANUARY 1949, Page 19

ON HEARING A SCOTTISH CHOIR

Unbidden, to the bone of love This gale of voices chills, As sears the seawind, chastening The islandman's wry hills.

Bell-tongues, in oceanic throng, Rouse a remembered peace, Cradle, the spirit and refresh With tears of sun and ice.

Hear, when the full effulgence pales, Pines to a crystal call, A shiver of sweet shadows rise Along heart's hollow hall.

P. A. T. O'Dowrun.L.