‘If seven maids with seven mops Swept it for half a year, Do you suppose,’ the Walrus said, ‘That they could get it clear?’ ‘I doubt it,’ said the Carpenter, And shed a bitter tear.

‘O Oysters, come and walk with us!’ The Walrus did beseech. ‘A pleasant walk, a pleasant talk, Along the briny beach: We cannot do with more than four, To give a hand to each.’

The eldest Oyster looked at him. But never a word he said: The eldest Oyster winked his eye, And shook his heavy head⁠— Meaning to say he did not choose To leave the oyster-bed.