Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house
Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.
Which isn't surprising, for all of the mice
Were stuffed in snake bellies or frozen on ice.
The vipers were brumating down in their beds
While visions of spring matings danced in their heads.
The cobras were coiled in their hide boxes deep
And in front of the fireplace, the python asleep.
When out on the lawn, there arose such a clatter
I sprang from my bed to see what was the matter.
And what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a empty sleigh, and eight frightened reindeer.
And there by the fire my python yawned wide
A red fur trimmed cap disappearing inside.
I wondered what he'd eaten, as it slid out of sight?
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good bite.
