Songs, Merry and Sad

Sonnet

     I would that love were subject unto law!
      Upon his person I should lay distraint
      And force him thus to answer my complaint,
     Which I, in well-considered counts, should draw.
     Not free to fly, he needs must seek some flaw
      To mar my pleading, though his heart were faint;
      Declare his counsel to me, and acquaint
     Himself with maxim, precedent, and saw.

     Ah, I could win him with authorities,
      If suing thus in such a sober court;
      Could read him many an ancient rhym'd report
     Of such sad cases, tears would fill his eyes
      And he confess a judgment, or resort
     To some well-pleasing terms of compromise!