17 DECEMBER 1943, Page 9

WOMAN'S COURAGE MASK the despair. Swallow the strangling tears.

Paint on the smile and smile until it cracks.

Blow out the hopes by eager fancy lit.

Hang up your heart until the war is done, But wrap it neatly round with cotton wool Lest it might shame you by its ravages.

Remember the leaves rattling in autumn's fury : Too long they clung to branches without sap. Disdain of empty comfort is a safer balm For senses scraped by fear, taut in the silent hour.

Mask the despair. Swallow the strangling tears. Only the madman beats against the wall.

PRUDENCE MONTAGU-POLLOCK.