That's why I have brought down this Holiday Task.

Though slumber-inviting the weather—the weather,

I'll turn my true hands, whilst in sunshine I bask,

To the use of the brush and wash-leather—wash-leather!

It's got a bit rusty from sheer want of use;

Though they tell me I'm promptish at pouncing—at pouncing.

Ah me! E'en an angel comes in for abuse,

Or me they would not be denouncing—denouncing.

A crocodile's sure to be down on the Gag,

And Harcourt's a fair alligator—ligator;