In Memoriam

M.N.F. Serbia, 10th March 1915

Blue-eyed, white-souled; blameless in word and deed! —
    How fortunate a thing it is to leave
    This life in such a way that none may grieve,
Or say – ‘Alas! But for that little weed
The plot had been so fair.’ For her, no need
    To sigh or make lament. She did achieve
    Her sacrifice; and we the garland weave,
Of white and evergreen, by love decreed:

While you, the mother, by the fire alone —
   Dreaming again the happy days forespent,
      Can scarce believe that tragic word the last.
But not for you the dark, unreasoned moan —
    You know she gave herself with high intent,
       And that for hero ways her heart beat fast.

12th March 1915.