Noman's Plan

    Well, how do you do, Mr. Big-voice One-eye.
    Do you mind if I don't stick around here to die?
    I've a crew to be rescued, some new tricks to try,
    And a wife to get home to some day by and by.

          Will you let us off lightly, or dine on us nightly?
          Will you keep us for provender here in your cave?
          Will you brag of your kills to your brothers
          And give thanks to the sea god, your father?

    We came here as guests, bringing gifts, seeking aid,
    Though my comrades were calling for plunder and raid.
    If we'd known how you'd host us, we'd never have stayed.
    Look well, Father Zeus, at how we've been betrayed!

          Will you let us off lightly, or dine on us nightly?
          Will you keep us for provender here in your cave?
          Will you brag of your kills to your brothers
          And give thanks to the sea god, your father?

    Now we've played you some tricks and slipped out of your hand.
    We'll head for our ship and get clear of the strand.
    Your warm hospitality here has been grand.
    If you want to drop in on me, seek Noman's Land.

        For I've let you off lightly, you'll dream of me nightly,
        The last face you saw ere we put out your eye.
        And you'll live to complain to your brothers
        And to pray to the sea god, your father.