The Poetry Corner

Midnight (The Adventures Of Seumas Beg)

By James Stephens

And then I wakened up in such a fright; I thought I heard a movement in the room But did not dare to look; I snuggled right Down underneath the bedclothes, then the boom Of a tremendous voice said, "Sit up, lad, And let me see your face."So up I sat, Although I didn't want to.I was glad I did though, for it was an angel that Had called me, and he said, he'd come to know Was I the boy who wouldn't say his prayers Nor do his sums, and that I'd have to go Straight down to hell because of such affairs. ... I said I'd be converted and do good If he would let me off, he said he would.