And drowse in chairs at clubs in open day,

Just as they drowsed o'er 'classic' 'Ballantrae.'

Hail to 'Thucydides'! and hail the pen

That writes him up above all other men;

For sleep's a blessing, and whate'er may hap

His works ensure a harmless, perfect nap.

"Lo, with what pomp the daily prints proclaim

The rival candidates for Attic fame;

In grim array though Haggard's Zulus rise,

Yet 'Q' and dull Grant Allen share the prize;