This page has been validated.

THE RETURN

(ALL ARMS)

Peace is declared, an' I return
To 'Ackneystadt, but not the same;
Things 'ave transpired which made me learn
The size and meanin' of the game.
I did no more than others did,
I don't know where the change began;
I started as a average kid,
I finished as a thinkin' man.


If England was what England seems
An' not the England of our dreams,
But only putty, brass, an' paint,
'Ow quick we'd drop 'er!
But she ain't!


Before my gappin' mouth could speak
I 'eard it in my comrade's tone;
I saw it on my neighbour's cheek

Before I felt it flush my own.

210