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"The Question" 
1916 |
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BRETHREN, how shall it fare with meWhen the war is laid aside, If it be proven that I am he For whom a world has died?If it be proven that all my good, And the greater good I will make,Were purchased me by a multitude Who suffered for my sake?That I was delivered by mere mankind Vowed to one sacrifice,And not, as I hold them, battle-blind, But dying with open eyes?That they did not ask me to draw the sword When they stood to endure their lot --That they only looked to me for a word, And I answered I knew them not?If it be found, when the battle clears, Their death has set me free,Then how shall I live with myself through the years Which they have bought for me?Brethren, how must it fare with me, Or how am I justified,If it be proven that I a mhe For whom mankind has died --If it be proven that I am he Who, being questioned, denied? |