The Bandersnatch fled as the others appeared Led on by that fear-stricken yell The Bellman remarked It is just as I feared! And solemnly tolled on his bell. Leave him here to his fate—it is getting so late! The Bellman exclaimed in a fright. We have lost half the day. Any further delay, And we won't catch a Snark before night! He was black in the face, and they scarcely could trace The least likeness to what he had been. While so great was his fright that his waistcoat turned white— A very strange thing to be seen! To the horror of all who were present that day. He uprose in full evening dress. And with senseless grimaces endeavoured to say What his tongue could no longer express. Down he sank in a chair—ran his hands through his hair— And chanted in mimsiest tones Words whose utter inanity proved his insanity, While he rattled his bones. He offered a large discount—he offered a cheque Drawn to bearer for seven-pounds-ten But the Bandersnatch merely extended its neck And grabbed at the Banker again. Without rest or pause—while those frumious jaws Went savagely snapping around— He skipped and he hopped, and he floundered and flopped, Till fainting he fell to the ground.