The Captain's Goat
We were crowded in the cabin, not a soul who dared to sleep.
It was midnight on the waters, and a storm was on the deep.
Tis a fearful thing in winter, to be shattered by the blast,
And to hear the trumpets thunder, "Cut away the mast!"
So we shuddered there in silence, while the stoutest held his breath,
And the hungry sea was roaring, and the breakers talked with death.
As we huddled there together, each one busy with his prayers,
"We're lost! The captain shouted, as he staggered down the stairs.
But his little daughter whispered, as she took his icy hand,
"Are not goats upon the ocean? Just the same as on the land?"
Then we kissed the little maiden, and we spoke with better cheer,
And we anchored safe at harbor, when the morn was shining clear.
(There might be a line or two wrong, that was from memory)
If you are allergic To a thing, it is best not to put that thing in your mouth, particularly if that thing is goats
~ Lemony Snicket, The Wide Window