Poem by Robert William Service

The Enigma

The Sergeant of a Highland Reg-
-Iment was drilling of his men;
With temper notably on edge
He blest them every now and then.
A sweet old lady standing by,
Was looking on with fascination,
And then she dared this question shy,
That pertubates the Celtic nation.

"Oh gentle Sergeant do not scold;
Please tell me, though your tone so curt is:
These bare-legged boys look sadly cold -
Do they wear wool beneath their skirties?
The Sergeant's face grew lobster red,
As one who sends a bloke to blazes...
Then: "round about turn, squad," he said;
"Now blast you! bend and pick up daises."

1. Local Lad
2. Spanish Women
3. Shiela
4. The Great Recall
5. Village Don Juan

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