The lover and himself, as learned men,

Had conversations ev'ry now and then;

For Nicia was a doctor in the law:

Degree, to him, not worth a single straw;

Far better had he common prudence traced;

And not his confidence so badly placed.

ONE day he to Calimachus complained,

Of want of heirs, and wished they could be gained:

Where lay the fault? He was a gay gallant;

Lucretia young with features to enchant.