V + 

Time was the flattering voice of fame, + 

His ruffian bravery adored, + 

And true, his pistol’s faultless aim + 

An ace at fifteen paces bored. + 

But I must add to what I write + 

That, tipsy once in actual fight, + 

He from his Kalmuck horse did leap + 

In mud and mire to wallow deep, + 

Drunk as a fly; and thus the French + 

A valuable hostage gained, + 

A modern Regulus unchained, + 

Who to surrender did not blench + 

That every morn at Verrey’s cost + 

Three flasks of wine he might exhaust. + 