31 DECEMBER 1965, Page 6

Trumpet Voluntary

The hour of our fate is approaching. We greet the trumpets of doom.—President Nkrumah.

Little black brothers, little black brothers, You have such a let to remark.

Could you sometimes do something to help one another?

More bite and a little less bark.

Who would think to complain that you're anxious lest others Should wilt from performing their task?

That you should take sanctions yourself, little brothers—

Would that be ungracious to ask?

The hour of your fate, as you tell us, is breaking. You march to the trumpets of doom, But all of the steps that you're actually taking Are devoted to leaving the room.

CHRISTOPHER HOLLIS