Page:Rudyard Kipling's verse - Inclusive Edition 1885-1918.djvu/599

 INCLUSIVE EDITION, 1885-1918 581

EDDI'S SERVICE

(A. D. 687)

JTT)DI, priest of St. Wilfrid

In his chapel at Manhood End, Ordered a midnight service For such as cared to attend.

But the Saxons were keeping Christmas, And the night was stormy as well.

Nobody came to service, Though Eddi rang the bell.

"'Wicked weather for walking,"

Said Eddi of Manhood End. "But I must go on with the service

For such as care to attend."

The altar-lamps were lighted, An old marsh-donkey came,

Bold as a guest invited,

And stared at the guttering flame.

The storm beat on at the windows, The water splashed on the floor,

And a wet, yoke-weary bullock Pushed in through the open door.

"How do I know what is greatest, How do I know what is least?

That is My Father's business," Said Eddi, Wilfrid's priest.