Bacchus, n.: A convenient deity invented by the ancients as an excuse for getting drunk.

DEGRADATION, n. One of the stages of moral and social progress from private station to political preferment.

ADMINISTRATION, n. An ingenious abstraction in politics, designed to receive the kicks and cuffs due to the premier or president. A man of straw, proof against bad-egging and dead-catting.

Dentist: a prestidigitator who, putting metal into your mouth, pulls coin out of your pocket.

RECOUNT, n. In American politics, another throw of the dice, accorded to the player against whom they are loaded.

Faith: Belief without evidence in what is told by one who speaks without knowledge, of things without parallel.

PENITENT, adj. Undergoing or awaiting punishment.