THE UNDYING FLAME

(Kindled by a Two Weeks' Vacation at the Seashore)

GEORGE S. CHAPPELL

Those were three lovely days we had Helene! Three days of sun, of surf, and sand, and sea . . . And then Corinna called, and heart and brain Went out to her—and we had other three.

Three other days! A swift and furious pace, With motor-mad excursions in the night; Until, sweet Jessica, I saw your face . . . (Jess is the goddess, standing, on the right.)

Can I forget, dear girl, the ocean ways We sailed together, flecked with snowy foam, When, suddenly, I saw my mirrored gaze In Elfie's eyes, and knew I'd found a home.

Can I forget you all? Your lovely wiles, Your tresses' fragrance, subtle-sweet and heady; Your friendly eyes and slow, provoking smiles? I'll say I can: in fact, I have already!