ROLL OF THE KETTLEDRUM 



We were clear of them all when we heard the 

 recall, 

 And thus we returned, but my tale is not 

 done. 



For the hand of my rider felt strange on my 

 bit, 

 He breathed once or twice like one partially 

 choked, 

 And sway'd in his seat, then I knew he was 

 hit; — 

 He must have bled fast, for my withers 

 were soak'd, 



And scarcely an inch of my housing was dry ; 

 I slacken'd my speed, yet I never quite stop't, 

 Ere he patted my neck, said, '' Old fellow, 

 good-bye ! " 

 And drop't off me gently, and lay where he 

 drop't ! 



Ah, me ! after all they may call us dumb 

 creatures, — 

 I tried hard to neigh, but the sobs took my 

 breath, 



