Cambridge Poets 1900–1913

Harold Monro . Oh, if there be no God , by whom and why Was Consciousness erected from the sod ? Though I hate life , I swear I will not die Until I have discovered — Who is God ? Joscelyn . By God, I cannot tell you . If your tale Be true, ' tis strange and terrible indeed . My only business is to sell my ale John . Have you no Church and no religious Creed ? Joscelyn . Church ! On the sabbath , surely . In the week I earn my bread . God knows , I cannot spare An hour - John ( looking up the road ). Ah, who is this ? I'll make him speak ! Joscelyn . ' Tis Farmer Henry coming from the fair . See , man ! To help you , this is what I'll do You ' re lame and dreary , but I like you well ; So you shall make my clients ' answer you ; ' Tis fair - day : surely one of them will tell , For ale puts thundering wisdom in a man . There 'll be a score at least — and if they fail , By Jesus , more and more I like the plan : In seeking God they 'll drink a butt of ale . ( Henry enters . Good morning , Henry . Here 's a man has trod Some fifty years upon a fruitless quest Of God . He cannot find Him . Henry . Not find God ! Damn it ! Draw me a gallon of your best ! 135