VICARIOUS REPRISALS.

I never countenanced the Hun in any sort of way—

He always does what isn't done and won't learn how to play—

But never have I felt estranged quite as I do to-day.

Till now I've strafed him like the rest, as natural and right,

But now my spirit is obsessed by bitter private spite;

And if he wants to know the cause—no mail came up to-night.

The sun must plod his weary course, the long night wax and wane,

To-day's strong rumours lose their force for others as insane,

The ration cart crawl up once more before we hope again.