_Pastrana._--'Tis true, indeed. Wonder at my opinion as you may, To fight with two men, or with three men, oft Is valour rather than temerity. Since courtesy or valour furnish means Of safety--and much more the cunning art Taught by Cararvza of the dextrous thrust, Strait or oblique--the science of revenge. Then one may say, if one is hardly pressed, "Sir, my experience shows me, that your worship Is an epitome of human valour; So I will never haunt this street again, Nor speak with Donna Mencia any more. And if you will accept me as a friend, My services attend you from this day." Words soft as these control a gentleman-- Money the robber. If your foe be brave, He must to greater pride and courage yield. In short, there's always hope, however fierce His wrath and keen his passion for revenge, To soothe the fury of the incensed _man_, If he be one whom gold or breeding win. But when a _bull_ has rent your cloak to shreds, And bellows at the shoulders of its owner, In hot pursuit--then try your time--advance, And whisper in the yelling monster's ear, "Sir Bull, a gentle bearing sets off valour-- Put some restraint upon your boiling rage. Indeed, that constant tossing of the head Can only suit a madman or a fool." And you will see the fruit of your advice. Offer your friendship to him, turn your head, You'll find the light at once shine through your back, Through two clear holes, each half a yard in length.