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About this quote

What does it mean?
Soldiers describe the Queen as a wealthy ruler who owns ships and pays them poorly.
In plain terms
The Queen is rich and powerful but pays soldiers little.
What can you take from it?
Power and wealth often do not translate to fair pay.

Where it applies

  • discussing wages
  • critiquing leadership
  • military life

Putting it to work

  • advocate pay
  • critique wealth
  • assess fairness

Questions to consider

  • Is pay the only reward?
  • How does wealth affect rule?

Another view

It ignores other forms of value soldiers receive.

More from Rudyard Kipling

  1. So I'll meet 'im later on At the place where 'e is gone - Where it's always double drill and no canteen. 'E'll be squattin' on the coals Givin' drink to poor d…

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  2. When first under fire an' you're wishful to duck, Don't look nor take 'eed at the man that is struck, Be thankful you're livin', and trust to your luck And mar…

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  3. You may talk o' gin and beer When you're quartered safe out 'ere, An' you're sent to penny-fights an' Aldershot it; But when it comes to slaughter You will do …

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