Characteristics of Women: Moral, Poetical, and Historical

How it begins

I do, with all the deference which befits a gentleman when a lady holds forth on the virtues of her own sex. "Only a rhyme I learned from one I talked withal;" 'tis a quotation from some old poet that has fixed itself in my memory—from Randolph, I think. 'Tis very justly thought, and very politely quoted, and my best courtesy is due to him and to you:—but now will you listen to me? Nay, then! I have done, unless you will lay aside these mock airs of gallantry, and listen to me for a moment! Is it fair to bring a second-hand accusation against me, and not attend to my defence?