Was e'er more eager for the sinewy fight.
Much time is spent in "getting into grips."
Mark how each wrestler crouches, feints, and slips!
Mark how they circle round and round the ring,
Like wary "pug," like tiger on the spring,
Cautious as one, though as the other bold,
Eye, foot, and hand manoeuvring for a hold!
And when indeed they close in mutual clutch,
And put the champion honours to the touch,
Strain every muscle, try each latest "chip,"