And false appear’d—he would not think it true.

Still he pursued the lovely prize, and still

Heard the cold words, design’d his hopes to kill;

He felt dismay’d, as he perceived success

Had inverse ratio, more obtaining less; 230

And still she grew more cool in her replies,

And talk’d of age and improprieties.

Then to his friends, although it hurt his pride, }

And to the lady’s, he for aid applied; }

Who kindly woo’d for him, but strongly were denied. }