[Götz Kluge]

Originally Posted by Len Krisak

... Does the 1830s text's explanation make any sense
to anyone out there?...

Thread: http://www.ablemuse.com/erato/showthread.php?p=4142 (15 years ago)

The rule of three also is a double rule as it is applied twice:

001 · · “Just the place for a Snark!” the Bellman cried,
002 · · · · As he landed his crew with care;
003 · · Supporting each man on the top of the tide
004 · · · · By a finger entwined in his hair.

005 · · “Just the place for a Snark! I have said it twice:
006 · · · · That alone should encourage the crew.
007 · · Just the place for a Snark! I have said it thrice:
008 · · · · What I tell you three times is true.”

329 · · “’Tis the voice of the Jubjub!” he suddenly cried.
330 · · · · (This man, that they used to call “Dunce.”)
331 · · “As the Bellman would tell you,” he added with pride,
332 · · · · “I have uttered that sentiment once.

333 · · “’Tis the note of the Jubjub! Keep count, I entreat;
334 · · · · You will find I have told it you twice.
335 · · ’Tis the song of the Jubjub! The proof is complete,
336 · · · · If only I’ve stated it thrice.”

I think that this is just about the Bellman (and later the Butcher) being apodictic. But as this is written by Carroll, the "rule of three" may have more than one meaning anyway.