Page 121 - English Expedition Class 4

18 After Blenheim

The Battle of Blenheim was mainly fought between the English and the French in the
town of Blenheim in Bavaria, Germany. Several people died as it generally happens during
war. But what is the purpose of war? What is gained from the death of so many innocents?

Discuss these questions in class and share your thoughts with your friends.

It was a summer evening;
Old Kaspar’s work was done,

And he before his cottage door
Was sitting in the sun;
1
And by him sported on the green
His little grandchild Wilhelmine.

She saw her brother Peterkin

Roll something large and round,
Which he beside the rivulet 2
In playing there had found.
He came to ask what he had found,

That was so large and smooth and round.

Old Kaspar took it from the boy,
3
Who stood expectant by;
And then the old man shook his head,
And with a natural sigh,

‘’Tis some poor fellow’s skull,’ said he,
4
‘Who fell in the great victory.’
‘Now tell us what ’twas all about,’
Young Peterkin, he cries;
And little Wilhelmine looks up

5
With wonder-waiting eyes;

1 4
sported: played fell: (here) died
2 5
rivulet: a small stream wonder-waiting: waiting with wonder
3
expectant: having or showing an excited feeling that
something good is about to happen
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