Comrades

Portrait of Robert William Service
Robert William Service 1874–1958

Three Holies sat in sacred place And quaffed celestial wine, As they discussed the human race With dignity divine. Said they: 'Although in doctrine we May differ more or less, In spirit stoutly we agree Religion's a success.'

Said One: 'I praise the pride of war, The Faith that mocks at fear; Desire of death in battle for It bringeth Heaven near.' The Second said: ''Tis Peace I preach, And hate of human strife; The sufferance of pain I teach, The sanctity of life.'

Then said the Third: 'Love I proclaim The goal of human good . . . Yet are we not all three the same In holy brotherhood?' And so they went forth hand in hand, Wending a starry way,-- Mohamet, gentle Buddha and He of Gethsemenè.

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