ROMAN WALL BLUES

     Over the heather the wet wind blows,
     I've lice in my tunic and a cold in my nose.
     The rain comes pattering out of the sky,
     I'm a Wall soldier, I don't know why.
     The mist creeps over the hard grey stone,
     My girl's in Tungria; I sleep alone.
     Aulus goes hanging around her place,
     I don't like his manners, I don't like his face.
     Piso's a Christian, he worships a fish;
     There'd be no kissing if he had his wish.
     She gave me a ring but I diced it away;
     I want my girl and I want my pay.
     When I'm a veteran with only one eye
     I shall do nothing but look at the sky.

October 1937