X + 

In fact, the subject analysed, + 

Within that secret court discussed, + 

In much his conduct stigmatized; + 

For, from the outset, ’twas unjust + 

To jest as he had done last eve, + 

A timid, shrinking love to grieve. + 

And ought he not to disregard + 

The poet’s madness? for ’tis hard + 

At eighteen not to play the fool! + 

Sincerely loving him, Eugene + 

Assuredly should not have been + 

Conventionality’s dull tool⁠— + 

Not a mere hot, pugnacious boy, + 

But man of sense and probity. + 