XI + 

Time was, in style magniloquent + 

Authors replete with sacred fire + 

Their heroes used to represent + 

All that perfection could desire; + 

Ever by adverse fate oppressed, + 

Their idols they were wont to invest + 

With intellect, a taste refined, + 

And handsome countenance combined, + 

A heart wherein pure passion burnt; + 

The excited hero in a trice + 

Was ready for self-sacrifice, + 

And in the final tome we learnt, + 

Vice had due punishment awarded, + 

Virtue was with a bride rewarded. + 