English poem
FOR MERIT.
by Ambrose Bierce (1842–1914)
To Parmentier Parisians raise A statue fine and large: He cooked potatoes fifty ways, Nor ever led a charge.
"Palmam qui meruit"—the rest You knew as well as I; And best of all to him that best Of sayings will apply.
Let meaner men the poet's bays Or warrior's medal wear; Who cooks potatoes fifty ways Shall bear the palm—de terre.