His praying seemed awkward to some, it is true,

But the most of them thought that perhaps it would do,

For the house was still standing when prayer was through,

Still, they heard the house creaking—’twas leaning some, too—

Then a yellow wave came with a swell, and it made

The house groan as it turned half around, but it stayed

For a moment to get its true bearings just right,

Then it plunged till the top floor alone was in sight,

And swiftly it sped as it whirled down the stream,

Sans captain or pilot, sans rudder or steam.