Into the cleft he thrust his greedy maw
Up to the ears, and either foremost paw.
Reynard drew near, and tugging might and main
Pulled forth the wedge, and the trunk closed again.
By head and foot was Bruin firmly caught,
Nor threats nor flatt’ry could avail him aught.
He howled, he raved, he struggled, and he tore,
Till the whole place re-echoed with his roar,
And Goodman Joiner, wakened by the rout,
Jumped up, much wond’ring what ’twas all about.