What wisdom was his! With attraction so strong,

He knew, if the life of his mate he’d prolong,

He must keep himself clear, and have full liberty;

That to enter the trap was for both them to die.

That the trap was neglected for months is quite clear,

From what it contained–what an odour was there!

’Tis pity I had not the power to save

The creatures, who all found a watery grave.

The servant–my house from such pests to deliver–

Remorselessly cast them all into the river.