Arms and the Man

Portrait of Siegfried Sassoon
Siegfried Sassoon 1886–1967

Young Croesus went to pay his call On Colonel Sawbones, Caxton Hall: And, though his wound was healed and mended, He hoped he'd get his leave extended.

The waiting-room was dark and bare. He eyed a neat-framed notice there Above the fireplace hung to show Disabled heroes where to go For arms and legs; with scale of price, And words of dignified advice How officers could get them free.

Elbow or shoulder, hip or knee, Two arms, two legs, though all were lost, They'd be restored him free of cost. Then a Girl Guide looked to say, 'Will Captain Croesus come this way?'

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