The Dueling Scar

Turner Cassity

In being nothing but,
It is the kindest cut:

No spear-thrust to adore;
No leper's shown-off sore.

Upon the student cheek
It thinly does not speak,

Except perhaps to say
A suture is display

Also, and youth an itch
Not for a touch but stitch.

Fraternity and scar
Entirely what you are,

Ex-fencer, is it rash
To tell you that a gash

May well re-open, blood
Wash out its brotherhood?

Back-stab their late touché,
Foe, seconds, self betray.