Socrates began more than he appreciated

In asking questions.

Mediaeval Europe gave more answers

Than mankind can comprehend.

Paris, Oxford, and Bologna

Upheld the unsubstantiated but enduring,

Many faceted, intertwining tapestry

Of scholarship.

Even Belfast, that drab,

Betrayed, but ever hopeful city,

Creator of great ships, has also

In its University a phoenix flame

Of hope for bright years to come.

All that is necessary is faith

And intellectual charity.

May 1967