Page:Oxford Book of English Verse 1250-1918.djvu/1082

 ERNEST RHYS

1859- 874 An Autobiography

WALES England wed; so I was bred. 'Twas merry London gave me breath. I dreamt of love, and fame: I strove. But Ireland taught

me love was best: And Irish eyes, and London cries, and streams of Wales

may tell the rest.

What more than these I ask'd of Life I am content to have from Death.

��HENRY CHARLES BEECHING


 * 1) 75 Prayers

GOD who created me Nimble and light of limb, In three elements free,

To run, to ride, to swim: Not when the sense is dim,

But now from the heart of joy, I would remember Him. Take the thanks of a boy.

Jesu, King and Lord,

Whose are my foes to fight, Gird me with Thy sword

Swift and sharp and bright Thee would I serve if I might;

And conquer if I can, From day-dawn till night,

Take the strength of a man.

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