Vii

Now, your rater and debater Is balked by a mere spectator Who simply stares and listens Tongue-tied, while eye nor glistens Nor brow grows hot and twitchy, Nor mouth, for a combat itchy, Quivers with some convincing Reply--that sets him wincing? Nay, rather--reply that furnishes Your debater with just what burnishes The crest of him, all one triumph, As you see him rise, hear him cry "Humph! Convinced am I? This confutes me? Receive the rejoinder that suits me! Confutation of vassal for prince meet-- Wherein all the powers that convince meet, And mash my opponent to mincemeat!"