New Form for the Swearing-in of Constables

(A Suggestion for Sir Charles Warren.)

“Dost thou accept the old creed of Coercion
In England, as in Ireland, tried and true?
Dost thou regard all freedom with aversion,
And hate her name?” “I do.”

“Wilt thou respect, court, venerate the classes,
Whate’er they seek to compass—good or ill?
Wilt thou molest and vilify the masses
In word and deed?” “I will.”

“Swear’st thou in wield thy truncheon for the Tory;
To smite, and curse, and wound, and overbear?
Then seize and prosecute with lying story
Some injured wretch?” “I swear.”

“Wilt thou perform thy duty in this station,
And tread and path that Endacott has trod?
What is thine oath of solemn adjuration?”
“I will—so help me God!”