Gary, I didn't make my point very well. Derrymcash seemed to be saying that an Irishman would only be serving as a mercenary, unless actually pressed into the British army. I just wanted to say that, apart from those joining for regular meals, the many Irish volunteers in the ranks regarded themselves as patriots like dashing Johnnie in the song. I used 1914 as a clear case of volunteering for a cause rather than to escape poverty
Derrymacash, I hadn't thought of disguised sentiments. Thanks, I'd like to know more of that.
Keith.