XXXIV

They that have been beside us all the day 
Rise up ; for they are summoned to the gate. 
Nor turn the head but take a downward way; 
Depart, and leave their households desolate. 

But you shall not depart, although you leave 
My house for conversation with your peers. 
Your admirable Ghost shall not receive 
Mere recollected vows and secret tears. 

But on that brink of Heaven where lingering stand 
The still-remembrant spirits hearkening down, 
Go, tower among them all, to hear the land, 
To hear the land alive with your renown. 

Nor strength, nor peace, nor laughter could I give 
But this great wages : after death, to live.

Hilaire Belloc