An Apology for Running Away

Whene'er superior force defies, 'Tis good the battle to decline; Grotius himself would so advise, And I may make his motives mine.

Who roams, a stronger foe to seek, Is sure unhappily employ'd; Retreat's the wisdom of the weak; 'Tis oft a triumph to avoid.

Mackheath, on either side attack'd, With artless honesty, affirms, Oppos'd by odds, he cannot act, And fights not, but on equal terms.

That, therefore, conquest may accrue, Your corps should half its strength detach; What fool would make attempt on two, When one may prove above his match?