The Old Man's Song, written in 1778, celebrated the role of women in the patriotic struggle.
Though age at my elbow has taken his stand, And Time has stretch'd o'er me his wrinkling hand;
Our patriot fair like a charm can inspire, In three-score-and-ten, twenty's spirit and fire.
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.
Could time be roll'd backward, and age become young, My heart swell with ardor, my arm be new strung;
Under Washington's banner I'd cheerfully fight, Where the smiles of the fair with glory unite.
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.
