I am in another land. There is culture everywhere.
My dressmaker tells me of a preacher she has found.
I go to hear him; what he says is most profound.
I see someone in cap and gown.
I remember the picture of my father dressed in professorial robes.
I go again to hear this man; I see someone in uniform.
I am mystified--I know no one in uniform.
Tell her I am here, tell her I am here.
A war is raging and this great city is in fear.
I go two more times, and again I hear the message,
Tell her I am here, tell her I am here.


Sheila Brolsma