page 17

I.
Amid the swift encroaching hours
The seeing eye must stand,
Trace treble-clear each wish and will
Like lines upon the hand.

Watch-tower tall and watch-word wise
Beneath the shadow of the skies

Observe: observe: observe.

Pierce; enfilade
The false façade
Of this our world.

II.
Permit each envy's tightening grip
To distort the pauper's lip;
Mirrored splendour of tomorrow
Deeper drives the constant sorrow.

For these the habit of despair
Forbids the moment's sudden flare;
For these, no warm expansive days,
No diary filled with matinees.

Each distraught encumbered street
Signifies the last retreat;
Be sure this fierce abrupt despair
Will spread dissension like a snare.

Be sure the clock will one day stop,
The ermine hairs begin to drop;
Banners flapping in the square,
While the factory whistles blare.

III.
Bright city's image
Clearer grow
Brave-eyed, strict-white
As light from snow;
Through day, by night,
Past play and plight,
Your challenge
Throw.

—J.D.F.