Is it a Ghost that never clanks his chains,

That never gibbers, and that bangs no door:

But quietly and peacefully remains

In calm possession of some upper floor?

A Harmless Ghost is not a Ghost at all,

Unworthy of the name; no Headless Man,

Or other spectre that could men appal,

Would condescend to live 'neath such a ban.

No phantom with a grain of self-respect

Would make a promise never to do harm.