PLAY THE GAME.

Taranaki Daily News, 7 October 1915, Page 7

PLAY THE GAME.

The following verses appear in an American journal:— If a Super-people has gone to war At its Ruler's instigation, For kultur's sake, or a place ia the sun, Or other consideration, It may do any deed, on land or sea, Secure of Divine approbation, Though the same be a black iniquity In a foe to the Super-nation. To raid unfortified towns and slay Their innocent population, May win for heroes who hail "The Day" Imperial decoration. But hear the cry that rings to the stars— The shriek of denunciation— When a raid of that sort is made in retort By a foe of the Super-nation.

T!ie drowning of mothers and helpless babes, Though a form of assassination, It needed, at times, we hear, to make A "Frightfulness" demonstration, Yet oh! the howl of surprise and wrath— The indignation protestation— At a U-boat rammed on its murderous path By a foe of the Super-nation! Oh, men who are fighting, play the game, Whatever your provocation! Evaded rules are the sportsmen's shame— Shrink not from their application! Fight fair, on your side; don't foul—don't grudge— Have done with retaliation; The game played out, the Umpire will judge 'Twixt Allies and Super-nation!