Siegfried Sassoon (1886–1967). The Old Huntsman and Other Poems. 1918.

26. Arms and the Man

YOUNG Croesus went to pay his call

On Colonel Sawbones, Caxton Hall:

And, though his wound was healed and mended,

He hoped he’d get his leave extended.

The waiting-room was dark and bare.

He eyed a neat-framed notice there

Above the fireplace hung to show

Disabled heroes where to go

For arms and legs; with scale of price,

And words of dignified advice

How officers could get them free.

Elbow or shoulder, hip or knee,

Two arms, two legs, though all were lost,

They’d be restored him free of cost.

Then a Girl Guide looked to say,

‘Will Captain Croesus come this way?’