Fate smashed the reeling struggle to the ropes,

Poised for the knockout; hurled his brute attack,

—And suddenly was lying on his back—

“Nine—Ten!” the slow words came like punctured hopes—

Laughing I clapped, and winked at languid Love.

I knew he had a star inside his glove!

DEVOURER OF NATIONS

“Strength shall be thrust to the Eater,

And down to the Strong One, sweet.”

Was ever a proverb neater,