20 MARCH 1953, Page 12

He and She

—I love you. What did you expect ? —Not that it would be like this. —And how else should it be ?

—There was a strangeness in your kiss : You were not kissing me.

She sighed, and so did he.

—I love you. Isn't that enough ?

—I do not know whose lips you kissed.

—In the looking-glass you'd see.

—Tell me then what it was I missed So tantalisingly.

He stirred, and so did she.

—I love you for yourself alone.

—It was not I whom you caressed. —It was, and lovingly.

—The woman loved is truly blessed And knows it instantly.

She frowned, and so did he.

—I love you. Must you ask for proof ? —You love an image of desire. —These words are lost on me.

—My lips are poor fuel for a fire That feeds on fantasy.

He rose, and so did she. I. H.