APPEAL TO AMERICA FOR BELGIUM.
Reading edition
By THOMAS HARDY.
Seven millions stand Emaciate, in that ancient Delta-land: We here, full charged with our own maimed and dead, And coiled in throbbing conflicts slow and sore, Can soothe how slight these ails unmerited Of souls forlorn upon the facing shore! Where naked, gaunt, in endless band on band Seven millions stand. No man can say To your great country that, with scant delay, You must, perforce, ease them in their sore need: We know that nearer first your duty lies; But—is it much to ask that you let plead Your loving kindness with you—wooing wise— Albeit that aught you owe and must repay No man can say?