Eugene Onegin ( without commentary )

XI

How he was able to seem new, in jest astonish innocence, alarm with ready desperation, 4 amuse with pleasant flattery, capture the minute of softheartedness; the prejudices of innocent years conquer by means of wits and passion, 8 wait for involuntary favors, beg or demand avowals, eavesdrop upon a heart's first sound, pursue love-and all of a sudden 12 obtain a secret assignation, and afterward, alone with her, amid the stillness give her lessons!