The Haughty Snail-king

(What Uncle William told the Children)

Twelve snails went walking after night.

They'd creep an inch or so,

Then stop and bug their eyes

And blow.

Some folks... are... deadly... slow.

Twelve snails went walking yestereve,

Led by their fat old king.

They were so dull their princeling had

No sceptre, robe or ring —

Only a paper cap to wear

When nightly journeying.

This king-snail said: “I feel a thought

Within.... It blossoms soon....

O little courtiers of mine,...

I crave a pretty boon....

Oh, yes... (High thoughts with effort come

And well-bred snails are ALMOST dumb.)

“I wish I had a yellow crown

As glistering... as... the moon.”