On one you’d just been slandering—aside.
I’ve seen you welcome, with that fond embrace,
A friend who trusted in your frank, bright face;
And while her parting steps the threshold pressed,
Her love, her looks, her manners turned to jest.
You triumph in the noble trick you’ve found,
Of winning love and trust from all around;
While cold and reckless, with a sneer at heart,
You plead, manœuvre, bind with Circe art.
But day by day, the flimsy veil grows thin,