“THE KNOCK ALPHABET” 353 
“THE KNOCK ALPHABET” 
[Mr. Kennan tells us that Russian prisoners converse with each 
other in a complex alphabet, indicated by knocking on the walls of 
their cells.] 
LixE prisoners, each within his own deep cell, 
We mortals talk together through a wall. 
“Was that low note indeed my brother’s 
call ? 
Or but a distant water-drop which fell?” 
Yet to the straining ear each sound can tell 
Some woe that might the bravest heart 
appal, 
Or' some high hope that triumphs over all : 
“Brother, I die to-morrow.” “Peace!” 
“ All’s well!” 
Oh, could we once see fully, face to face, 
But one of these our mates, — once speak 
aloud, 
Once meet him, heart to heart, in strong 
embrace, — 
How would our days be glad, our hopes be 
proud ! 
Perchance that wall is Life; and life being 
done, 
Death may unite these sundered cells in one. 
