Arthur Quiller-Couch, comp. The Oxford Book of Victorian Verse. 1922.
Chant for ReapersWilfrid Thorley (18781963)
W
Your healing hands in solace?
Who shall soften like you the places rough?
Who shall hasten the harvest?
For laden boughs and blossom?
Who shall quicken like you the sapling trees?
Who shall ripen the orchards?
The hazel nuts are hollow.
Who shall garner the wheat if you be gone?
Who shall sharpen his sickle?
Have made you our oblation.
Who shall save us from dearth if you be fled?
Who shall comfort and kindle?
Whose flimsy burden topples.
Downward tumble the woods if you be dumb,
Stript of honey and garland.
With pleading hands up-lifted?
Smile and bless us again that all be well;
Smile again on your children.