Answer: "Leg over, leg over, the dog went to Dover" is a nonsense verse that is part of a traditional English nursery rhyme or children's song. It is not meant to convey a specific meaning or message, but rather to provide a playful and entertaining melody for children to sing and dance to. The verse is often repeated several times with minor variations in lyrics or actions, such as "This is the way the lady rides" or "This is the way the farmer rides." The exact origin of the verse is unclear, but it is thought to have originated in the 18th century and has been passed down through generations of English-speaking children.
Explanation: In this context, "Leg over, leg over, the dog went to Dover" is a reference to a traditional English nursery rhyme or children's song that is meant to convey the idea of a playful and simple action, not a particular meaning. The phrase is being used in this text as an allusion to the Germans' advance toward Suez, which is depicted as a significant step in their efforts to control the eastern Mediterranean. The use of this phrase in this context may suggest a sense of irony or sarcasm, as the playful and seemingly innocuous rhyme contrasts with the seriousness of the military situation being described.