11 SEPTEMBER 1942, Page 9

ALTERNATIVE

THE flower does not complain

If it does not rain, But endures, endures.

The scanty dews of dawn and night Suffice at need for its delight, As drouth inures.

Let me live out my hour Quietly as a flower: If the rains flow With grace and favour . . . it is well ; But even if every pool is dried And even the tithes of dew denied, Be it so, be it so ; I will fold my music in its bell And softly go.

GEOFFREY JOHNSON.