Genre:

Poetry

Subjects:

Military Technology, War, Invention

    Reflects on the days (notably during the Napoleonic Wars) when the British soldier had to fight with the 'Brown Bess'—'not a gun / For shooting to depend on', although its bayonet proved effective and its name 'struck terror'. Hopes that with the Enfield rifle, 'English Riflemen succeed / In place of English bowmen', and will protect 'Old England'. Wishes 'Good speed' to the invention.