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!