But thus it is—if to an even number,

Or e’en an odd one, if you so prefer it,

You add a unit, or if you deduct one,

Say will the number still remain the same?

B. Certainly not.

A. So, if you take a measure

A cubit long, and add another cubit,

Or cut a portion off, the measure then

No longer is the same?

B. Of course it is not.