The poem
Upspoke the culprit at the bar, Conducting his own case: 'Your Lordship, I have gone to far, But grant me of your grace. As I was passing by a shop I saw my arm go out, And though I begged of it to stop, It stole beyond a doubt.
'But why should my whole body be Condemned to dungeon grim, For what in fact was only the Transgression of a limb? So here before the Court I stand, And beg in Justice' name: Please penalise my arm and hand, But not my frame.'
Outspoke the Judge with voice of ice, Although a smile he hid: 'Quite right! You should not pay the price For what one member did. Your reasoning I must admit; Your arm should gaol expect . . . Three months! And if you follow it The Court does not object.'
The culprit smiled with sudden charm, Then to the Court's dismay, Quickly removed a wooden arm And went away.