I HAD an evil day when I To Strathpeffer drew anigh, For there I found no human soul, But ogres occupied the whole. They had at first a human air In coats and flannel underwear. They rose and walked upon their feet And filled their bellies full of meat, Then wiped their lips when they had done -- But they were ogres every one. Each issuing from his secret bower I marked them in the morning hour. By limp and totter, lisp and droop I singled each one from the group. Detected ogres, from my sight Depart to your congenial night From these fair vales: from this fair day Fleet, spectres, on your downward way, Like changing figures in a dream To Muttonhole and Pittenweem! Or, as by harmony divine The devils quartered in the swine, If any baser place exist In God's great registration list -- Some den with wallow and a trough -- Find it, ye ogres, and be off! |