I
Lest it may more quarrels breed,
I will never hear you read.
II
By disputing, I will never,
To convince you, once endeavour.
III
When a paradox you stick to,
I will never contradict you.
IV
When I talk, and you are heedless,
I will show no anger needless.
V
When your speeches are absurd,
I will ne’er object a word.
VI
When you, furious, argue wrong,
I will grieve, and hold my tongue.
VII
Not a jest or humorous story
Will I ever tell before ye.
To be chidden for explaining,
When you quite mistake the meaning.