The Bandersnatch

The Bandersnatch, an illustration by JVL in Lewis Carroll's The Hunting of the Snark, 

Artists' Choice Editions, 2006.

The Text:

Fit the Seventh - The Banker's Fate

 123

They sought it with thimbles, they sought it with care;

 They pursued it with forks and hope;

 They threatened its life with a railway-share;

 They charmed it with smiles and soap.

 124

And the Banker, inspired with a courage so new

 It was matter for general remark,

 Rushed madly ahead and was lost to their view

 In his zeal to discover the Snark

125

 But while he was seeking with thimbles and care,

 A Bandersnatch swiftly drew nigh

 And grabbed at the Banker, who shrieked in despair,

 For he knew it was useless to fly.

 126

He offered large discount--he offered a check

 (Drawn "to bearer") for seven-pounds-ten:

 But the Bandersnatch merely extended its neck

 And grabbed at the Banker again.

 127

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.