Contents -BIBLIOGRAPHIC RECORD

Siegfried Sassoon (1886–1967). The Old Huntsman and Other Poems. 1918.

33. Before the Battle

MUSIC of whispering trees

Hushed by a broad-winged breeze

Where shaken water gleams;

And evening radiance falling

With reedy bird-notes calling.

O bear me safe through dark, you low-voiced streams.

I have no need to pray

That fear may pass away;

I scorn the growl and rumble of the fight

That summons me from cool

Silence of marsh and pool

And yellow lilies is landed in light

O river of stars and shadows, lead me through the night.