Have been wasted because not wanted,

Had we been without guard—neither bolted nor barred—

Though we'd spent less (for that is granted),

Shouldn't we have looked glum if a burglar had come,

And with our goods levanted?

"I appeal to the room, why mayn't we assume

That the very precautions we've taken

Against Ephraim's advice, may have been the price

At which we have saved our bacon?"

"Hear, hear!" cried the crowd. Police were allowed;