Gilbert Keith Chesterton

Here you will find the Poem The Englishman of poet Gilbert Keith Chesterton

The Englishman

St George he was for England, 
And before he killed the dragon 
He drank a pint of English ale 
Out of an English flagon. 
For though he fast right readily 
In hair-shirt or in mail, 
It isn't safe to give him cakes 
Unless you give him ale. 

St George he was for England, 
And right gallantly set free 
The lady left for dragon's meat 
And tied up to a tree; 
But since he stood for England 
And knew what England means, 
Unless you give him bacon 
You mustn't give him beans. 

St George he is for England, 
And shall wear the shield he wore 
When we go out in armour 
With battle-cross before. 
But though he is jolly company 
And very pleased to dine, 
It isn't safe to give him nuts 
Unless you give him wine.