David Crawford

A Letter sent to a Gentleman, who had advised the Author to be a Volunteer, but was rejected on account of Age

Dear Sir, last night I gave a call 
As was propos’d at Merchants-hall 
When Gol’nel Crichton knew my age, 
He said he could not me engage. 
I found my heart began to dunt, 
I thought it rather an affront, 
There’s volunteers that I can see, 
Both old and weaker men than me. 
I never meant to pocket pay, 
But just to learn the art to play,
In case invasion should take place, 
To meet a Frenchman in the face, 
As bold as others in the core, 
Upon a field where cannons roar, 
Although I am on the decline, 
Perhaps I might Hand one campaign.