4 NOVEMBER 1911, Page 34

AD MATREM.

[To THE EDITOR OF TEN "SPECTATOR"]

Sts,—If the last word on this subject has not already been said, I should like to add that no poet has shown a keener insight into the heart of a mother than has R. L. Stevenson in his poem " Mother and Son." The last two verses must have brought comfort to many a mother :—

" And as the fervent smith of yore Beat out the glowing blade, Nor wielded in the front of war The weapons that he made,

But in the tower at home still plied His ringing trade ; So like a sword the son shall roam On nobler missions sent; And as the smith remained at home In peaceful turret pent, So sits the while at home the mother Well content."

—I am, Sir, &c., A MOTHER.