We talked of it, as people do of sorrow far aloof,
Nor dreamed such care would ever dwell beneath our happy roof.
But England's woes are ours to-day, we share the sighs of France;
Our little boy is on the sea with Death to take his chance.
Next of Kin
I notice when the news comes in
Of one who's claimed eternal glory,
This simple phrase, "the next of kin,"
Concludes the soldier's final story.