25 JUNE 1948, Page 14

CONVERSATION

As tree-stems hold Clear against winter-cold Their myriad boughs enlocked, enlaced, In one intricate pattern firmly traced: So may men's swift minds lightly hold

Their delicate fancies manifold,

Their branchy images tipped with gold, While for shock and counter-shock firmly braced Their arguments thrust up pithy and bold.

MARJORIE MILNE.