Soon > [As soon] in place > there
2 His wicked books in haste he overthrew, 3 Not caring his long labours to deface,
deface > destroy
4 And, fiercely running to that lady true, 5 A murderous knife out of his pocket drew, 6 Which he thought, for villainous despite,
despite > malice
7 In her tormented body to imbrue:
imbrue > steep; defile; hence: plunge
8 But the stout damsel, to him leaping light,
stout > brave light > quickly
9 His cursed hand withheld, and mastered his might.