John Suckling

A Soldier

I am a man of war and might,
And know thus much, that I can fight,
Whether I am in the wrong or right,
Devoutly.

No woman under heaven I fear,
New oaths I can exactly swear,
And forty healths my brain will bear
Most stoutly.

I cannot speak, but I can do
As much as any of our crew,
And, if you doubt it, some of you
May prove me.

I dare be bold thus much to say,
If that my bullets do but play,
You would be hurt so night and day,
Yet love me.