Page:The Poetical Works of Ram Sharma.djvu/143

 MORRISSEUS OR THE STORY OF THE LOST EAR 101 To seize him at home, to seize him abroad; To seize him in street, or the temple of God; To seize him in walking, or talking, or joking; To seize him in eating, or drinking, or smoking ; Wherever he be, whate'er district he tread, To seize him alive, or bring up his head! Never was Judge so terribly hot! But the question arose, Very just, I suppose, Did the culprit deserve so much powder and shot? The day is come, 'Midst deep'ning hum Of voices, Zurando now steps into Court, With resolute look, and dignified port. But no longer gay-You justly may say! His beard seems to be turn'd slightly grey! At sight of him, The Judges look grim! And the Philistines cry out, "That's him! That's the scamp that has stolen the ear! That's the thief standing by Bonnerjeus there!" That limb of the law, Slowly open'd his jaw, And in the proceedings discover'd some flaw; He denied the charge. And for his client did urge Many arguments, Probity being his trump; Then added, "Pray nail not his ear to the pump !" With gloomy brow, Momisseus now A long conference held with his Chief, How to punish that budmash,* that impudent thief ! The old Kazi of course, Yielded to force Of his brother's appeal, As the sequel will reveal;
 * Miscreant.