Nor that one that is kissing the wench;

But that grey-haired old chap, whose right sleeve, sir,

Is empty, and pinned to his breast;

And I’ll bet you he says that he’s seen better days.

I can see it. That fine manly chest

I’ll warrant has heaved ’neath the scarlet,

Those grey eyes, so earnest and grave,

That look full of scorn, ne’er in plebeian born;

He’s a soldier—or has been—and brave.

I wonder if, speaking politely,