Classic Poem

I don't know if 'twas Bill, or Jim, or Tom who started it,
Or if the Boss was in the swim — it matters not a bit.
They all were there at Stiffner's pub, the Dry Hole Creek elect,
When Bill said it was " Archie Tect " , and Jim said " Arky Tect! "

There was no Daniel Webster there to put the matter through
(And Daniel used to drink himself, if all accounts are true);
But, had the Unabridged been there for all hands to inspect,
James would have had it " Arky Tect " and William " Archie Tect " .

Tom said — I think he started it, I'm pretty sure he did —
That " Arky " was a nickname that this chap had when a kid;
But still those two mates argued it and gave the lie direct;
And some took sides with " Archie Tect " and some with " Arky Tect "

They fought it out by Dry Hole Creek, where nothing comes amiss;
And men have fought on redder fields for lesser things than this.
The constable was referee — and liked it, I expect —
(His name was Archie Brassington, it wasn't Arky Tect ).

They fought it out by Dry Hole Creek, like Bushmen of the land,
Until they both were blind; and then the seconds took a hand
And fought until the constable called on them to reflect —
And none knew if 'twas " Achie Tect " or if 'twas " Arky Tect "