The Old Man's Song, written in 1778, celebrated the role of women in the patriotic struggle.
Boy, fill me a bumper! as long as I live, The patriot fair for my toast must I give:
Here's a health to the sex of every degree, Where sweetness and beauty with firmness agree.
No more will I babble of times that are past, My wish is, the present forever may last;
Already I see sulky George in despair, Should he vanquish the men - to vanquish the fair!
Of Greeks and of Romans enough has been said, To Codrus and Brutus full tribute been paid:
O'er musty old heroes no longer I'll dream, Living beauty and virtue enliven my theme.
Fill a bumper again, boy and let it go round, For the waters of youth in claret are found;
The younkers shall know, I've the courage to dare Drink as deep as the best to the patriot fair.
