The Light that Failed

Kai Tiaki : the journal of the nurses of New Zealand, Volume XIII, Issue 4, 1 October 1920, Page 180

The Light that Failed

(By One Who Was There.)

It occurred m the Empire City, And had something to do with a strike, As are most of earth's deeds of darkness — You will notice they're much alike. This modern electric cooking, A wondrous convenience you'll find it — Except when you turn on the switch To find there's no power behind it! You will hear folk boast of their management then Of meals still wholesome and thrifty, But think of the lady who catered For a family of fifty ! With the aid of a camp-fire and a trusty umbrella, Which an assistant is holding to leeward, Someone m blue is evolving a stew — But the breeze bore the seasoning seaward. The porridge simmered m cauldrons of hope; The fish grew tender m bellows of steam. United Endeavour brewed .the tea — And the cow came along and 'supplied the cream. Gaily sputtered the roast before the fire, Which was coaxed with chips by the tireless one;

The gravy was thickened with flour and smuts. And the pudding browned m the rays of the sun. I could tell of eggs poached on a candle flame In those days of achievement and glory ; But it grieves me sorely to think there are some Who may not believe my story.