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Portrait of G.K. Chesterton
G.K. Chesterton 1874–1936

See the flying French depart Like the bees of Bonaparte, Swarming up with a most venomous vitality. Over Baden and Bavaria, And Brighton and Bulgaria, Thus violating Belgian neutrality.

And the injured Prussian may Not unreasonably say "Why, it cannot be so small a nationality Since Brixton and Batavia, Bolivia and Belgravia, Are bursting with the Belgian neutrality."

By pure Alliteration You may trace this curious nation, And respect this somewhat scattered Principality; When you see a B in Both You may take your Bible oath You are violating Belgian neutrality.

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  1. Galdus Canada

    Its weird and makes no sense...jeeeze!!

  2. Tammy United States

    I think he was mocking the (perceived) Prussian tendancy to take offense vigoriously and with ease. Since Belgium had the lack of foresight to exist between France and Germany, it got marched or fled through more than its fair share. Belgium, in allowing itself to be overrun by the valiantly fleeing French, failed to maintain neutrality thus making itself both offensive and fair game to Germany.

  3. bob fred United States

    it is hard to understand but it is a creative poem. Great Job!!!!!!!!!!!!

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