WE have reason to think there will soon be a peace, And that war with the Rebels will certainly cease; But, be that as it will, I would have you to know That as matters are changing, we soon may change too; In short, I would say, (since I have it at heart) Though the war should continue, yet we may depart. Four offers in season I therefore propose, (As much as I can do in reason, God knows) In which, though there be not too plentiful carving, There still is sufficient to keep you from starving. And, first, of the first, it would mightily charm me To see you, my children, enlist in the army, Or enter the navy, and get for your pay A farthing an hour, which is sixpence per day -- There's Hector Clackmannan, and Arthur O'Gregor And Donald Medonald shall rule you with vigour: If these do not suit you, then take your new plan, Make your peace with the rebels (march off, to a man:) There rank and distinction perhaps you may find And rise into offices fit to your mind -- But if still you object -- I advise you to take a Farewell of New-York -- and away to Jamaica. | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE SICKNESS by CHARLES BUKOWSKI THE BUILDING OF THE SHIP by HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW TO CLARE by EDMUND CHARLES BLUNDEN THE MOCKING-BIRD by JOHN GARDINER CALKINS BRAINARD CONNECTICUT ROAD SONG by ANNA HEMPSTEAD BRANCH TAM THE CHAPMAN by ROBERT BURNS |