So, filled with high ambition and the hope
Of gaining huge emolument, this man
Hung to the toothed battlements a rope,
Climbed and leapt down to execute his plan—
But even as he leapt a noise began
As when the Arctic icebergs break and grind;
This was because his pants were caught behind.
Awhile they tore, then stayed. And helpless there
Betwixt the silvery moonlight and the ground
He hung convulsive, grasping at the air,