Kiss the maid and pass her round,
Lips like hers were made for many.
Our loves are far from us to-night,
But these red lips are sweet as any.
Let no empty glass be seen
Aloof from our good table's sparkle,
At the acme of our cheer
Here are francs to keep the circle.
They are far who miss us most--Sip
and kiss--how well we love them,
Battling through the world to keep
Their hearts at peace, their God above them.
_February 11th, 1917._