I can see him now—with his fluttering curls, and his cheeks so chubby and round,
Which a cherub might have been proud of, in snowiest linen bound!
Then—he hailed us, in infant accents, so innocent, fresh, and blithe—
That our nest of human snakes was stirred to a conscience-stricken writhe!
(In soft falsetto, as Child). Dear Pirates, I am so sorry—I did want to see you so.
I'm afraid you'll be disappointed—but you mustn't come near, you know!
I wish I could ask you on board to tea, for I feel so down in the dumps,
But I can't invite you—for, if you came, you'd be certain to catch my Mumps!
I've given it all of the passengers, and the Captain, and Mate, and Crew,
And it would be a dreadful pity if you were to catch it too!"