I stood, unseen, within a sumptous room, Where one clothed all in white sat silently. So sweet his presence that a pure soft light Rayed from him, and I saw--most wondrous sight!-- The Love of God shrined in the flesh once more, And glowing softly like a misted sun. His back was towards me. Had I seen his face Methought I must have fallen. I was wrong. The door flung wide. With hasty step Came one in royal robes and all the pride And pomp of majesty, and on his head A helmet with an eagle poised for flight. He stood amazed at sight of him in white, His lips apart in haughty questioning. But no words came. Breathless, he raised his hand And gave salute as to a mightier lord, And doffed his helm, and stood. And in his eyes I saw The reflex glory of his Master's face. The Master spoke. His voice so soft and sweet Thrilled my heart's core and shook me where I stood,-- "_Time runs apace. The New Time is at hand. Shall it be Peace or War? It rests with_ THEE." In dumb amaze the other shook his head. "_Thy brother of the North has cast his lot For peace. Alone he cannot compass it. Shall it be Peace or War? It rests with_ THEE." Again the other shook his head amazed, But never swerved a hair's breadth in his gaze. "_Shall it be Peace or War? Join hands with him, Thy Northern brother, with the Western Isles, And with their brethren of the Further West, And Peace shall reign to Earth's remotest bound_." And still the other shook his head amazed. "_Shall it be Peace or War? Millions of lives Are in thy hand, women and men and those My little ones. Their souls are mine. Their lives Are in thy hand. Of thee I shall require them. Shall it be Peace or War_?" * * * * *