And blame not the troops in the Soudan for straying
Unlinked with their base as they press to their goal—
It is, though, undaunted the front they’re displaying,
A “circumstance over which they’ve no control.”
* * * * *
Oh, blame not the walrus that’s come to Westminster
If loneliness makes him to set up a howl,
How often the same has occurred to the spinster
Who sits by her parrot and cat, cheek by jowl;
And blame not the Frenchman with China who quarrels,