Chapter III
Charles Timothy Brooks translation
When night came, all worn and tired, As if nothing had transpired, Paul and Peter in their chamber Lay there, wrapt in peaceful slumber, A soft snoring through their noses Shows how tranquilly each dozes.
But not so with Plish and Plum! They sit ill-at-ease and glum,
Not being lodged to suit their mind,
To turn in they too inclined. Plish, the dog's old rule to follow, Turns round thrice, his bed to hollow; Plum, however, shows a mind More affectionately inclined.
When we dream of perfect rest Comes full many a troublous guest.
"March!" With this harsh word the pets. Turn their outward summersets Coolness wakes activity; Time well-filled glides pleasantly.
Means of sport are handy too, Here a stocking—there a shoe. These, before the morning glow, Curious changes undergo.
When he comes the boys to wake, And beholds the frightful wreck,
Pale the father cries: "This will Be a monstrous heavy bill!" Vengeful claws are in the air; Feigning sleep, the rogues lie there;
But the mother begs: "I pray, Fittig dear, thy wrath allay!" And her loving words assuage The stern father's boiling rage. Paul and Peter never care How they look or what they wear.
Peter two old slippers gets, Paul his infant pantalets.
Plish and Plum, in morals blind, To the dog-house are confined.
"This is bad!" says Sly, "he! he! Very bad, but not for me!"