TYROLEAN ELEGIES
13
I recalled then—for I read the Bible—
Jonah’s sad, but necessary fate,
When from off the boat he was ejected
The stormy seas to sate.
“Let us toss a lot”, I said. “Among us
Is a sinner worthy of reproach,
And to pacify the skies, this sinner
Must leap from out the coach.”
I no sooner spoke, behold the gendarmes
Without waiting burdened souls to pry,
Penitently breaking through the doorway,
Out the coach they fly.
Oh you ages, topsy turvy ages,
In the ditch the guards lie upside down,
While the equipage with its delinquent
Rides alone to town.
