English poem
BALLAD. (When in order drawn up, and adorn'd…)
by Anonymous
When in order drawn up, and adorn'd in his best, If my soldier appears with more grace than the rest, If his gaiters are jet, his accoutrements fine, If his hair's tied up tight, and his arms brightly shine,
Let him turn, wheel, or face, march, kneel, stoop, or stand, Anxious still to obey every word of command; Erect like an arrow, or bending his knee, 'Tis not for the general, 'tis all to please me.
If with smoke and with dust cover'd over by turns, To gain a sham height, or false bastion he burns; If of danger in spight, and regardless of fear, He rushes to fight when there's nobody near:
In short, let him turn, &c.
More by Anonymous
- BALLAD. (What though from Venus Cupid sprung)
- BALLAD. (When faintly gleams the doubtful day)
- BALLAD. (When fairies are lighted by night's silver…)
- BALLAD. (When I comes to town with a…)
- BALLAD. (When jealous out of season)
- BALLAD. (When last from the straits we had…)
- BALLAD. (When last in the Dreadful your honour…)
- BALLAD. (When Yanko dear fight far away)