HIS LADY.]
HUDIBRAS.
435
Subscrib'd his name, but at a fit
And humble distance to his wit;
And dated it with wondrous art,
'Giv'n from the bottom of his heart;
Then seal'd it with his coat of love, 345
A smoking faggot,—and above
Upon a scroll—I burn, and weep;
And near it—For her ladyship,
Of all her sex most excellent,
These to her gentle hands present.[1] 350
Then gave it to his faithless Squire,
With lessons how t' observe and eye her.[2]
She first consider'd which was better.
To send it back, or burn the letter:
But guessing that it might import, 355
Tho' nothing else, at least her sport,
She open'd it, and read it out,
With many a smile and leering flout:
Resolv'd to answer it in kind,
And thus perform'd what she design'd. 360
And humble distance to his wit;
And dated it with wondrous art,
'Giv'n from the bottom of his heart;
Then seal'd it with his coat of love, 345
A smoking faggot,—and above
Upon a scroll—I burn, and weep;
And near it—For her ladyship,
Of all her sex most excellent,
These to her gentle hands present.[1] 350
Then gave it to his faithless Squire,
With lessons how t' observe and eye her.[2]
She first consider'd which was better.
To send it back, or burn the letter:
But guessing that it might import, 355
Tho' nothing else, at least her sport,
She open'd it, and read it out,
With many a smile and leering flout:
Resolv'd to answer it in kind,
And thus perform'd what she design'd. 360
- ↑ The Knight's prolix superscription to his love-letter is in the fashionable style of the time. Common forms were—To my much honoured friend—To the most excellent lady—To my loving cousin—these present with care and speed, &c.
- ↑ Don Quixote, when he sent his squire Sancho Panza to his mistress Dulcinea del Toboso, gives him similar directions.
