Classic Poem

Indeed (my Dear) you wrong my Dog in this,
And show yourself to be of crabbed kind,
That will not let my fawning whelp to kiss
You first, that fain would show his Master's mind:
A Mastiff were more fit for such a one,
That can not let her Lover's dog alone.

He in his kind for me did seem to sue,
That erst did stand so highly in your grace,
His Master's mind the witty Spaniel knew,
And thought his wonted Mistress was in place:
But now at last (good faith) I plainly see
That Dogs more wise than women friendly be.

Wherefore since you so cruelly entreat
My whelp, not forcing of his fawning cheer,
You show yourself with pride to be replete,
And to your Friend your nature doth appear:
The Proverb old is verified in you,
Love me and Love my Dog, and so adieu!

Both I and he, that silly beast, sustain
For loving well and bearing faithful hearts,
Despitous checks, and rigorous disdain,
Where both hath well deserved for our parts,
For Friendship I, for offered service he,
And yet thou neither lov'st the Dog nor me.