To the horror of all who were present that day.

He uprose in full evening dress,

And with senseless grimaces endeavored to say

What his tongue could no longer express.

Down he sank in a chair -- ran his hands through his hair --

And chanted in mimsiest tones

Words whose utter inanity proved his insanity,

While he rattled a couple of bones.

“Leave him here to his fate -- it is getting so late!”

The Bellman exclaimed in a fright.

“We have lost half the day. Any further delay,

And we shan’t catch a Snark before night!”