Aimsir Eachainn, 19 February 1982

Monday

I remember one winter's night, shortly before Mussolini fell on the Abyssinians, going to visit Murdo the Soldier, as I often did. He was at his writing with his back to Peggy. "I am just now, my lad, writing a piece of poetry - me and the Wind in conversation. Sit down quietly and I will read a verse or two to you. Here now is me speaking to the Wind: "Who understands strength will not see the eye and will never be at rest, but he who often is mending sails would be playing football.
" Here then is the Wind replying ," said Murdo.
" It is that indeed," said Peggy, "and plenty of it."

... ...

Tuesday

"Are not men better than sheep?" (Matt., Verse 7). Notice, friends, that it was a question that the man who wrote those words was asking. It is clear that he was not sure which was better. Why else is there a question mark after the words? Perhaps on the other hand he was asking who is better OFF, men or sheep. In 1982 in this poor country which we live in, there is no doubt who is better off. There is a £6.50 subsidy on sheep but there is only £5.25 on children.

... ...
Wednesday

... ...
"When you were a painter, you were good at white-washing -
and many a lovely lad you spoiled with your splashing."

[the joke is partly having balach - boy, lad in the 'song' where here balla - wall would be more expected for white-washing.]