But were expensive—though a man of sense
Would by his prudence lighten the expense. 430
Prudent he was, but made a sad mistake
When he proposed her faded face to take;
And yet ’tis said there’s beauty that will last
When the rose withers and the bloom be past.
“One thing displeased her—that he could suppose
He might so soon his purposes disclose;
Yet had she hints of such intent before,
And would excuse him if he wrote no more.