When using a protocol over a net
(like TCP/IP or one I forget)
Where the number of bits has got to be eight
The Standards for C won't keep the things straight:
A char that's unsigned has got enough bits
But it might have too many, giving you fits!
A byte is a char, and a char is a byte
Eight bits is common but nine is in sight
Digital Signalling Processors? Whew!
Here you may find there's a whole thirty-two!
When external formats on you are imposed
The trick to remember (while staying composed):
The C system's "bytes" may well be too big
But this does not mean you must give up the jig
To talk to another, the box you are on
Must have some way for them to begone
("Them" being pesky extraneous bits)
It just is not Standard, the part that omits
Some high order zeros of values between
Oh oh and eff eff (and hex sure is keen!).
To hold the right values, a char that's unsigned
Will do the trick nicely, I think you will find.
Who cares if it's bigger than strictly required?
The values you need will never get mired.
The eight bits you want won't get overtired
And values you need will never get mired!
(by me, 28 Oct 2004 ... some minor scansion work 3 Mar 2007)