THE VETERAN
Reading edition
John Jackson, once a soldier bold, Hath still a martial feeling; So, when he sees a foe, behold! He charges him—with stealing. He cares not how much ground to-day He gives for men to doubt him; He's used to giving ground, they say, Who lately fought with—out him. When, for the battle to be won, His gallantry was needed, They say each time a loaded gun Went off—so, likewise, he did. And when discharged (for war's a sport So hot he had to leave it) He made a very loud report, But no one did believe it.