NATIONAL GAURD. Didnt know much, but knew something. Learned while the other men played. Didnt delay for commissions; went while other men stayed. Took no degrees at Plattsburg, Needed to soon for the game, Ready at hand to be asked for, Orders said; "Come" and they came. Didnt get bars on their shoulders, Or three months to see if they could; Didnt get classed with the reg'lars Or told they were equally good. Just got a job and got busy, awkward they were but intent, Filing no claim for exemption, Orders said "Go!" and they went. Didnt get farewell processions, Didnt get newspaper praise, Didnt escape the injunction To men, In Extense, their ways. Work bench and counter and roll top, Hug in and minding their chance, Orders said: "First line of trenches!" They're holding them-somewhere in France.
