And I could tell where many a canker gnaws

Within the walls they fancy free from sin;

I know how officers infringe their laws,

I know the corners where the men climb in;

I know who broke the woodland fence to bits

And what platoon attacked the Shirley cow,

While the dull Staff, for all their frantic chits,

Know not the truth of that distressing row.

These are the things I think they should be taught,

But, since I know what ages must elapse,