The narrative follows a soldier during the Civil War, specifically when Sherman marched through Georgia. The soldier, hungry and resourceful, decides to fish for a meal using a hook and line. He encounters an old woman with a flock of geese and sets his sights on her gander. The soldier's intention is to capture the gander, believing it will provide a satisfying meal. As he casts his bait, the gander leaves its companions, seemingly in pursuit of the soldier. The old woman reassures the soldier that the gander is harmless and only playful, insisting that it has never harmed anyone and is known for its good nature. Despite her assurances, the soldier, fearful of the gander, chooses to flee. Unbeknownst to the old woman, the gander has been caught by the hook. Once the soldier reaches safety, he removes the hook from the gander's bill, twists its neck, and prepares to roast it. The soldier reflects on the meal with pride, indicating that he often boasts about this particular feast. The story highlights themes of survival, resourcefulness, and the unexpected outcomes of seemingly simple encounters.
By James McIntyre · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Humor, Fable