THE VETERAN

John Jackson, once a soldier bold,

Hath still a martial feeling;

So, when he sees a foe, behold!

He charges him — with stealing.

He cares not how much ground to-day

He gives for men to doubt him;

He's used to giving ground, they say,

Who lately fought with — out him.

When, for the battle to be won,

His gallantry was needed,

They say each time a loaded gun

Went off — so, likewise, he did.

And when discharged ( for war's a sport

So hot he had to leave it )

He made a very loud report,

But no one did believe it.