31 MARCH 1967, Page 12

A neglected grave

VERNON WATKINS

Those others take the mountain path And these possess the plain.

You, you alone your mother Earth Held back, as by a chain.

You knew the bitter taste of salt, You sang the exile's wave.

Your love, forgiving every fault, Could not forgive the grave.

Your spirit saw what was denied More clearly than the rest.

If wit and courage calm supplied, How calmly you would rest. for Heine