And with forgotten Punches idly toy,

How it will reconcile me to my fate

To muse upon the mouth-wash you employ.

Or, squirming in the plush-upholstered chair,

How shall I thrill with valour to observe

Among the implements of torture there

A magnum of the best, to brace my nerve.

Not the hooked probe nor hum of whirring file,

The fearful forceps nor the needled lance

Will wholly banish my expectant smile