Puts the dire question that he meant to shun,
And by a moment’s frenzy is undone.”—
“Well!” said the Wife, “admit this nonsense true—
A mighty prize she gains in catching you!
For my part, Sir, I most sincerely wish
My landing-net had miss’d my precious fish!”—
“Would that it had! or I had wisely lent
An ear to those who said I should repent.”—
“Hold, Sir! at least my reputation spare, 300
And add another falsehood if you dare.”—