He primmed his loose red mouth, and leaned his head Against a sorrowing angel’s breast, and said: “You’d think so much bereavement would have made Unusual big demands upon my trade. The War comes cruel hard on some poor folk– Unless the fighting stops I’ll soon be broke.” He eyed the Cemetery across the road– […]

The house is crammed: tier beyond tier they grin And cackle at the Show, while prancing ranks Of harlots shrill the chorus, drunk with din; “We’re sure the Kaiser loves the dear old Tanks!” I’d like to see a Tank come down the stalls, Lurching to rag-time tunes, or “Home, sweet Home,”– And there’d be […]

Young Croesus went to pay his call On Colonel Sawbones, Caxton Hall: And, though his wound was healed and mended, He hoped he’d get his leave extended. The waiting-room was dark and bare. He eyed a neat-framed notice there Above the fireplace hung to show Disabled heroes where to go For arms and legs; with […]

The Bishop tells us: “When the boys come back They will not be the same; for they’ll have fought In a just cause: they lead the last attack On Anti-Christ; their comrade’s blood has bought New right to breed an honourable race. They have challenged Death and dared him face to face.” “We’re none of […]

You told me, in your drunken-boasting mood, How once you butchered prisoners. That was good! I’m sure you felt no pity while they stood Patient and cowed and scared, as prisoners should. How did you do them in? Come, don’t be shy: You know I love to hear how Germans die, Downstairs in dug-outs. “Camerad!” […]

To these I turn, in these I trust; Brother Lead and Sister Steel. To his blind power I make appeal; I guard her beauty clean from rust. He spins and burns and loves the air, And splits a skull to win my praise; But up the nobly marching days She glitters naked, cold and fair. […]