26 SEPTEMBER 1947, Page 10

THE FEW

(SEPTEMBER, 1947)

I HAVE seen them—

Do you doubt it?

—In serried flights the grey birds Noiseless, silent from some secret mission Come, linger, and then go Under the autumn moon.

By day, birds of gay plumage Sweep smooth as they look Upon the golden glory of England's fields.

You must not doubt it!

—There are spirits in the Kentish fields by night and day: The shades of those who gave their all Loiter in the folds of Down and glade ; And when a year from now, they come again, Put out your bread and bowl of milk and cup of wine: Hang out your coloured shawl and scarf of silk, And shout—" England is strong again, The cheer with which you died