You'd have to cut the business out, and be content to chat
Of rations, grub, and officers—such odds and ends as that,
Unless you chanced to entertain some true rough-rider's ghost,
Who galloped after HANNIBAL, or with the Parthian host,
Some curled Assyrian prince who pranced, bareback, along a frieze—
Or one of RUPERT'S beaux sabreurs—a horseman—whom you please.
With chosen spirits such as those your talk need never end
If you are worthy of your spurs and count a horse your friend.
Just ask them "Did you clip trace-high?" or "Did you chaff your hay?"
Or boast about the gee you ride, and they'll have lots to say.