Genre:

Song, Drollery

Subjects:

Steamships, Military Technology, War, Politics

    Describes his observations of 'a wonderful Ram' which had 'frightened Uncle Sam'—a reference to the United States government's frantic diplomacy to avert the delivery of a Confederate order for two British-built ironclads. Draws attention to the length, iron 'head', the 'roaring flue', and 'awful screw' of the vessel. States that it was reported to be destined for Egypt (a ruse used to ensure secrecy), but wonders what would happen if it 'made for Davis's straits' (i.e. if it entered into the American Civil War). Concludes by praising John Russell (1st Earl Russell) for using 'wise discretion [...] in clapping the Ram in the Pound'.