the willing conscript (LP Version)

the willing conscript (lp version) - tom paxton
oh sergeant i'm a draftee
and i've just arrived in camp.
i've come to wear the uniform
and join the martial tramp.
and i want to do my duty,
but one thing i do implore
you must give me lessons,
sergeant, for i've never killed before.
to do my job obediently is my only desire.
to learn my weapon thoroughly
and how to aim and fire.
to learn to kill the enemy
and then to slaughter more,
i'll need instruction, sergeant,
for i've never killed before.
oh, there are rumors
in the camp about our enemy.
they say that when you see him
he looks just like you and me.
but you deny it, sergeant,
and you are a man of war,
so you must give me lessons,
for i've never killed before.
now there are several lessons
that i haven't mastered yet.
i haven't got the hang of
how to use the bayonet.
if he doesn't die at once am i
to stick him with it more?
oh, i hope you will be patient,
for i've never killed before.
the hand grenade is something
that i just don't understand.
you've got to throw it quickly
or you're apt to lose your hand.
does it blow a man to pieces
with it's wicked, muffled roar?
oh, i've got so much to learn
because i've never killed before.
oh, i want to thank you, sergeant,
for the help you've been to me.
for you've taught me how to slaughter
and to hate the enemy.
and i know that i'll be ready
when they march me off to war,
and i know that it won't matter
that i've never killed before.
and i know that it won't matter
that i've never killed before.