The Pirate Poodle

Once there was a Pirate Poodle, And he sailed the briny seas From the land of Yankee Doodle Southward to the Caribbees. He would boast with tales outlandish, Of his valor and renown; And his cutlass he would brandish With a fearful pirate frown. So ferocious was his manner All his crew looked on, aghast; And his fearful pirate banner Floated from his pirate mast. He reiterated proudly Naught had power to make him quail; Yet when thunder roared _too_ loudly He would turn a trifle pale. And he turned a little paler When there came a sudden squall; For this funny little sailor Was ridiculously small. And whene'er a storm portended He'd betake himself below. So much fear and courage blended Did a pirate ever show?