Corporal Dick's Promotion. a Ballad of '82

Name: Corporal Dick's Promotion. a Ballad of '82
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

The narrative follows Corporal Robert Dick and a young recruit as they traverse a desert, weary and parched. They stray from their unit and encounter danger in the form of Bedouins. Dick, a seasoned soldier, is characterized by his rough demeanor and quick temper, while the recruit is inexperienced and struggling. As they navigate the harsh landscape, they hear a cry signaling an approaching threat. Dick recognizes the danger and prepares for confrontation, urging the recruit to stand firm. When they face the Emir Ali Khan and his men, Dick demonstrates bravery by taking down the Emir and seizing his horse. In a moment of selflessness, Dick helps the recruit escape, insisting he ride away to safety while he stays behind to confront the attackers. He sees this as an opportunity for promotion, reflecting on his life and longing for home as he readies himself for the fight. The young recruit, witnessing the chaos, looks back to see Dick bravely facing the Bedouins. A British cavalry squad later arrives to find Dick dead, clutching his rifle, having fought valiantly against overwhelming odds. His sacrifice and courage become a topic of reverence among his comrades, who remember him not just for his death but for the honor he displayed in his final moments. The story concludes with the notion that Dick's selfless act may have earned him the promotion he sought, symbolizing the ultimate recognition of his bravery.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1890 · Genre: War Poetry, Ballad, Historical Fiction · 1,123 words

First lines

The Eastern day was well-nigh o'er When, parched with thirst and travel sore, Two of McPherson's flanking corps Across the Desert were tramping. They had wandered off from the beaten track And now were wearily harking back, Ever staring round for the signal jack That marked their comrades camping.

The one was Corporal Robert Dick, Bearded and burly, short and thick, Rough of speech and in temper quick, A hard-faced old rapscallion. The other, fresh from the barrack square, Was a raw recruit, smooth-cheeked and fair Half grown, half drilled, with the weedy air Of a draft from the home battalion.

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Corporal Dick's Promotion. a Ballad of '82 is listed on Textopian as a poem by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1890 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1890 CE
Language: English
Genres: War Poetry, Ballad, Historical Fiction, Adventure, Heroic Literature
Length: 1,123 words
Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Discussion starters

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Similar titles

Genres

War Poetry — The poem centers around military themes, depicting the experiences and sacrifices of soldiers in battle.
Ballad — The work is structured as a ballad, telling a narrative story through verse, focusing on a specific event and characters.
Historical Fiction — The poem references historical military events and settings, providing a fictionalized account of a soldier's experience.
Adventure — The narrative includes elements of adventure, such as combat and survival in a hostile environment.