PRELUDE TO "BARRACK-ROOM BALLADS" <br /> <br /> I have made for you a song <br /> And it may be right or wrong, <br />But only you can tell me if it's true. <br /> I have tried for to explain <br /> Both your pleasure and your pain, <br />And, Thomas, here's my best respects to you! <br /> <br /> O there'll surely come a day <br /> When they'll give you all your pay, <br />And treat you as a Christian ought to do; <br /> So, until that day comes round, <br /> Heaven keep you safe and sound, <br />And, Thomas, here's my best respects to you!<br /><br />Rudyard Kipling<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/to-thomas-atkins/
