1685-1750.
Epilogue to Zara.
First, then, a woman will, or won't—depend on 't;
If she will do 't, she will; and there's an end on 't.
But, if she won't, since safe and sound your trust is,
Fear is affront: and jealousy injustice.[17]
Verses Written on a Window in Scotland.
Tender-handed stroke a nettle,
And it stings you for your pains;
Grasp it like a man of mettle,
And it soft as silk remains.
'Tis the same with common natures:
Use 'em kindly, they rebel;
But be rough as nutmeg-graters,
And the rogues obey you well.