War and Peace

In sodden trenches I have heard men speak,

Though numb and wretched, wise and witty things;

And loved them for the stubbornness that clings

Longest to laughter when Death's pulleys creak;

 

And seeing cool nurses move on tireless feet

To do abominable things with grace,

Deemed them sweet sisters in that haunted place

Where, with child's voices, strong men howl or bleat.

 

Yet now those men lay stubborn courage by,

Riding dull-eyed and silent in the train

To old men's stools; or sell gay-coloured socks

And listen fearfully for Death; so I

Love the low-laughing girls, who now again

Go daintily, in thin and flowery frocks.