One winter night, at half-past nine, Cold, tired, and cross, and muddy, I had come home, too late to dine, And supper, with cigars and wine, Was waiting in the study. There was a strangeness in the room, And Something white and wavy Was standing near me in the gloom -- I took it for the carpet-broom Left by that careless slavey. But presently the Thing began To shiver and to sneeze: On which I said 'Come, come, my man! That’s a most inconsiderate plan. Less noise there, if you please!' 'I’ve caught a cold,' the Thing replies, 'Out there upon the landing.' I turned to look in some surprise, And there, before my very eyes, A little Ghost was standing! 3