All are permitted when intrigue 's the word;

To hold the contrary were quite absurd.

Till stratagem was used I naught could gain,

But looks and darts from eyes, for all my pain.

I've paid myself;—Would you have done it?—No;

'Tis all as might be wished;—come, smiles bestow;

I'm satisfied, the fault was not with you.

In this, to make you wretched, naught I view;

Why sigh and groan?—What numbers could I name,

Who would be happy to be served the same.