Madison entered to Jefferson’s mess His nerve and composure were put to the test When Britain’s impressmen kept kidnapping seamen To serve in her navy no longer as free men. Finally to war was James Madison driven, Britain's predations could not be forgiven. Fighting began with much boasting and bluster We’ll batter the Brits, said recruits at the muster. But fighting went badly right out of the start. Early campaigning at once fell apart. Britain proved tougher than most had foretold, With Indian allies resentful and bold. Most galling of all as emotions hit bottom Was a raid that occurred in the conflict’s third autumn. Redcoat marauders put Yankees to flight, Invaded the capital, set it alight. A single bright spot in this circus of folly Was the pluck of Mizz Madison, valorous Dolley. While much of the city was whining and fainting She made her escape with the Washington painting. The smoke of the fire and the gloom of defeat Made Madison prudently beat a retreat.
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Ballad of the Presidents: Madison
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Madison entered to Jefferson’s mess His nerve and composure were put to the test When Britain’s impressmen kept kidnapping seamen To serve in her navy no longer as free men. Finally to war was James Madison driven, Britain's predations could not be forgiven. Fighting began with much boasting and bluster We’ll batter the Brits, said recruits at the muster. But fighting went badly right out of the start. Early campaigning at once fell apart. Britain proved tougher than most had foretold, With Indian allies resentful and bold. Most galling of all as emotions hit bottom Was a raid that occurred in the conflict’s third autumn. Redcoat marauders put Yankees to flight, Invaded the capital, set it alight. A single bright spot in this circus of folly Was the pluck of Mizz Madison, valorous Dolley. While much of the city was whining and fainting She made her escape with the Washington painting. The smoke of the fire and the gloom of defeat Made Madison prudently beat a retreat.