I’m able to somewhat unmask him,

To learn ’bout his arm. He seems passive and calm,

There’s nothing like cheek—no—I’ll ask him.

*  *  *  *  *

“How did I lose my arm, sir?”

(The grey-headed veteran rose),

“Well, come, fill up my pot, I’d as lief tell as not,”

(And he fell in a “Bagonet” pose

You know—stand at ease—right leg forward

The right arm—or sleeve—on the breast-ee’s,