Page:Bierce - Collected Works - Volume 04.djvu/152

146 Principles cleverly cut out and fitted To Percy's capacity, duly admitted
 * And fought for by Mr. Cabee.


 * Drusus Turn Swinnerton Porfer Fitzurse
 * Holds office the most of his life.
 * For men nor for principles cares he a curse
 * But much for his neighbor's wife.

The Ship of State leaks, but he doesn't pump any— Messrs. Mahosh, Cabee & Company
 * Pump for good Mr. Fitzurse.

Time was, not very long ago,
 * As by historians time is reckoned,

When first of virtues here below Was hatred of secession, though
 * Some swore it wasn't even second;

But these (they mostly were down South)
 * Have all renounced their view with candor—

Some tardily by word of mouth.
 * Some, earlier, in a manner grander.

To stamp their error out, 'tis true,
 * We paid enough of blood (the treasure