_Commissioner_. Oh, "the Knight, PINTO-MENDEZ FERDINANDO," as POE
calls him, is the tutelary genius of Bards--and Bobbies! Hush!

_Inspector_. If in thy homage bred
Each point of discipline I've still observed;
Swearing in squads, affirming in platoons;
Nor but by due promotion, and the right
Of service to the rank P.C. Inspector,
Have risen; assist thy votary now!

_1st P.C._ Yet do not rise--hear me! [_Kneels._

_2nd P.C._ And me! [_Kneels._

_3rd P C._ And me! [_Kneels._

_Inspector_. Now swear--and pray--all together!

_All_. We swear!!!
Behold thy votaries submissive beg
That thou wilt deign to grant them all they ask,
Assist them to accomplish all their ends,
And sanctify whatever means they use
To gain them

_Mr. P._ A very orthodox and harmonious chorus. Their "_tutti_" is
perfection.

_Commissioner_. Vastly well, is't not? Is that well managed or not? Is
the "thin Blue line" well disciplined or not? Have you such absolute