Dawn
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From the train between Bologna and Milan,second class.) OPpposITE me two Germans sweat and snore.Through sullen swirling gloom we jolt and roar.We have been here for ever: even yetA dim watch tells two hours, two zons, more.The windows are tight-shut and slimy-wetWith a night’s foetor. There are two hoursmore;Two hours to dawn and Milan; two hours yet.Opposite me two Germans sweat and snore. . . . One of them wakes, and spits, and sleeps again.The darkness shivers. A wan light through therainStrikes on our faces, drawn and white. SomewhereA new day sprawls; and, inside, the foul airIs chill, and damp, and fouler than before. . . .Opposite me two Germans sweat and snore. 42
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