The Cause

Because in our great game they were the pawns with which we scored,
We'll wait around a while and try to keep from looking bored;
If volunteer, if conscript, when they joined us in our fight,
They truly earned their pittance if they died for what is Right.
In their remembrance we'll invest a minute - make it two -
Because they gave it all for us, not for themselves or you.
We'll stand here looking sombre in our poppy-pimping suits
And tolerate the breaking-off from filling of our boots,
In memory of those who served their Government and Crown
By helping keep the profits up and hold the rabble down.

Gloria Stead