Page:The Bab Ballads.djvu/187

Rh Said, "Oh! accursed of your kind, I have heard that ye are men of evil mind!
 * gave a dreadful shriek—
 * But before he'd time to speak

I was mercilessly collared from behind.

In number ten or twelve, or even more, They fastened me, full length, upon the floor.
 * On my face extended flat
 * I was walloped with a cat

For listening at the keyhole of a door.

Oh! the horror of that agonising thrill! (I can feel the place in frosty weather still).
 * For a week from ten to four
 * I was fastened to the floor,

While a mercenary wopped me with a will!

They branded me, and broke me on a wheel, And they left me in an hospital to heal;
 * And, upon my solemn word,
 * I have never never heard

What those Tartars had determined to reveal.

But that day of sorrow, misery, and rage, I shall carry to the Catacombs of Age.
 * Photographically lined
 * On the tablet of my mind,

When a yesterday has faded from its page!