Still would I not, presuming, pass my word
That all such tales were groundless and absurd.”
“But you will grant,” said one who sate beside,
“That all appear so when with judgment tried?”
“For that concession, madam, you may call,
When we have sate in judgment upon all.”
An ancient lady, who with pensive smile
Had heard the stories, and been mute the while,
Now said, “Our prudence had been better shown
By leaving uncontested things unknown; 190