Sonnet

I would that love were subject unto law!

Upon his person I should lay distraint

And force him thus to answer my complaint,

Which I, in well-considered counts, should draw.

Not free to fly, he needs must seek some flaw

To mar my pleading, though his heart were faint;

Declare his counsel to me, and acquaint

Himself with maxim, precedent, and saw.

Ah, I could win him with authorities,

If suing thus in such a sober court;

Could read him many an ancient rhym'd report

Of such sad cases, tears would fill his eyes

And he confess a judgment, or resort

To some well-pleasing terms of compromise!