Classic Poem

Once on a time from Britain sent,
To Berlin's court an envoy went,
Before great Frederick's throne to bring
Dispatches from his sov'reign King:
His business done, the Prussian Sire,
For gen'ral news 'gan to enquire;
Ask'd him how things were going on,
With dull Mynheer or pompous Don,
With each new victory, or mischance,
And how went on the war with France?
When thus the envoy to the prince
Replied, dread Sovereign! not long since,
By God's assistance well sustain'd,
A signal vict'ry we obtain'd
O'er France, that most imperious foe,
Which looks like a decissive blow.
What! cried the Prince with feign'd surprise,
Is Heaven's great King 'mong your allies?
Yes, Sire, the Englishman return'd,
Whose breast with keen resentment burn'd,
He is! the only staunch ally,
To whom we pay no subsidy.