The Bab Ballads, with Which Are Included Songs of a Savoyard

by W. S. Gilbert

One day on parade to Prepere and La Guerre

Came Corporal Jacot Debette,

And, trembling all over, he prayed of them there

To give him the pretty Fillette.

"You see, I am willing to marry my bride

Until you've arranged this affair;

I will blow out my brains when your honours decide

Which marries the sweet Vivandière!"

"Well, take her," said both of them in a duet