THE LITTLE HOUSES.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 12718, 13 August 1919, Page 7

THE LITTLE HOUSES.

We have braided many things, fashioned many wonders. Scythe end plough, and saddle-tree and hunting-knife and spear; We have wrought for beauty and for glory and for pleasure, And have braided little Looses for the women we love dear. All along the highway there are little houses. Pleasant in the sunlight, peaceful in the rain; You may sea the folk go forth early in the morning. And at dusk returning home along the lane. We have fashioned Zeppelins and bayonets and cannon, Launched our Dreadnoughts on the sea, a terror to the deep; Yet he God our witness we have also huilded houses— Little peaceful houses where the little children sleep. Some are set in gardens, lawns and frees about them, Some are crowded wall to wall elong the city street: But in town and country God has blessed the little houses With the laughing eyes of women and with children’s romping feet. We have moulded for ourselves telegraphs .. and tunnels, Biuilded 'bridge and barrack-room, derrick, dock and gtm; But for love of women we have huilded little houses. Pleasant in the shadows and peaceful In the sun. All the wide world over there are little houses, Silent in the starlight, shining in the dew; There with children’s laughter and the loving hearts of women God, the builder, builds the world anew. —Victor Starhuok, in “ Century Magazine.