16 JULY 1942, Page 9

LORD'S CRICKET GROUND

How well do I recall those ardent hours Under the railed pavilion's busy clock, Where ag'd Victorian members, set like rock, Extolled some by-gone batsman's wondrous powers.

Knew the content of slow and radiant peace: The sharp click of the bat, the bowler's cry : The friendly pensive sun in August sky : The sandwiches we ate upon our knees.

Admired the limber players flannelled ease Between the overs, lolling on the ground.

Joined in the crowd's excited swelling sound To mark a finished century at the crease.

The bated silences, spontaneous noise, Were a small part of cricket's golden joys.

JOHN HADEN.