Page:Armistice Day.djvu/462

440 Granted, but I would have thee tell this haughty warrior here somewhat of thy mind, and let the people listen. What dost thou for mankind, my daughter? (Turning to second ) Prepare to write, boy.

( moves forward eagerly and leans on spear to listen. leans forward also.)

(turning slightly toward with a smile). Make ready many tablets, faithful lad, for be sure my words will fill them all. (Turning to audience.) As well might I attempt to prove that day would dawn without the sun as that mankind would flourish without Peace. War is the storm that snaps the oak, peace the sweet influence that garlands it with vines and flowers. Peace brings united families, a father's love and care and his strong arm to defend his household. (Here starts, shrinks back somewhat, and partly turns away his face.) Peace brings prosperity; flocks and herds feed upon her smiling lands, shelters are built for man and beast, and shrines rise up where God is worshiped. ( writes rapidly upon his tablet and takes others from his dress as proceeds, striving to keep up with the stream of her words.) Peace gives room for science to work her magic, for the useful arts to flourish, that man may be fed and