22 FEBRUARY 1957, Page 10

Soldier's Home Coming

Is this then the end of the story? Is the brave tale told so soon That we swore to write together In love's first flaming June?

And is this grey December The end of that holy vow That we swore, do you not remember, But ten short years from now?

It is not so, for I shall write it Alone, since needs I must. My love was not false, though you slight it. My word not scribbled in dust.

HAILSHAM