`` I never said I knew him , '' answered the Rocket . `` I dare say that if I knew him I should not be his friend at all . It is a very dangerous thing to know one 's friends . '' `` You had really better keep yourself dry , '' said the Fire-balloon . `` That is the important thing . '' `` Very important for you , I have no doubt , '' answered the Rocket , `` but I shall weep if I choose '' ; and he actually burst into real tears , which flowed down his stick like rain-drops , and nearly drowned two little beetles , who were just thinking of setting up house together , and were looking for a nice dry spot to live in . `` He must have a truly romantic nature , '' said the Catherine Wheel , `` for he weeps when there is nothing at all to weep about '' ; and she heaved a deep sigh , and thought about the deal box . But the Roman Candle and the Bengal Light were quite indignant , and kept saying , `` Humbug ! humbug ! '' at the top of their voices . They were extremely practical , and whenever they objected to anything they called it humbug . Then the moon rose like a wonderful silver shield ; and the stars began to shine , and a sound of music came from the palace . The Prince and Princess were leading the dance . They danced so beautifully that the tall white lilies peeped in at the window and watched them , and the great red poppies nodded their heads and beat time . Then ten o'clock struck , and then eleven , and then twelve , and at the last stroke of midnight every one came out on the terrace , and the King sent for the Royal Pyrotechnist . `` Let the fireworks begin , '' said the King ; and the Royal Pyrotechnist made a low bow , and marched down to the end of the garden . He had six attendants with him , each of whom carried a lighted torch at the end of a long pole . It was certainly a magnificent display . Whizz ! Whizz !
went the Catherine XXXXX , as she spun round and round .
Fire-balloon King Prince Pyrotechnist Wheel Whizz humbug midnight o'clock rain-drops