If he become no partner with the pair
Even in a game which, played adroitly, gives
Its winner life's great wonderful new chance,—
Of marrying, to wit, a second time,—
Ah, if he did thus, what a friend were he!
Anger he might show,—who can stamp out flame
Yet spread no black o' the brand?—yet, rough albeit
In the act, as whose bare feet feel embers scorch,
What grace were his, what gratitude were mine!"
Such protestation should have been my wife's.