The Cow Chase by Major John Andre 

[…]

Know, that some paltry Refugees 

Whom I’ve a mind to fight, 

Are playing h-l among the trees 

That grow on yonder height. 

Their fort and block-houses we’ll level. 

And deal a horrid slaughter: 

We’ll drive the scoundrels to the devil. 

And ravish wife and daughter. 

I, under cover of th’attack. 

Whilst you are all at blows. 

From English-Neighbourhood and Tinack 

Will drive away the cows. 

For well you know the latter is 

The serious operation : 

And fighting with the Refugees 

In only–demonstration. 

His daring words, from all the crowd 

Such great applause did gain, 

That every man declar’d aloud 

For serious work-with Wayne. 

[…]

And now the foe began to lead 

His forces to th’ attack; 

Balls whistling unto balls succeed, 

And make the blockhouse crack. 

No shot could pass, if you will take 

The Generals word for true; 

But ’tis a d-mnable mistake, 

For every shot went through. 

The firmer as the rebels press’d 

The loyal heroes stand. 

Virtue had nerv’d each honest breast, 

And industry each hand. 

[…]

Five Refugees. ’tis true, were found 

Stiff on the blockhouse floor: 

But then, ’tis thought the shot went round. 

And in at the back door.