‘Admit that in our backwoods haven, From empty rumour far away, I was not to your liking… Say, then, Why you’re pursuing me today. Why have you marked me for attention? Might it not be because convention Includes me in the social round, Because I’m wealthy and renowned, Because my husband’s wounds in battle Have gained him royal favour, fame? Might it not be because my shame Would feed the flames of tittle-tattle And win you, in society, Seductive notoriety?
