We bequeath a parting tip
For sound advice to such men
As come across in transport ship
To polish off the Dutchmen.
If you should chance across a Boer
You really mustn’t loot ‘em
And if you wish to leave this shore
For pity’s sake, don’t shoot ‘em!
— Henry “Breaker” Morant, executed Feb. 1902 for “war crimes” committed while serving with the Bushveldt Carbineers in the Northern Transvaal. Sometimes known as the “Scapegoat of the Empire.”
One of my favorite movies. And Woodward recites this poem so well.
That’s what comes of Empire building!