Classic Poem

Well then, good John, since it must needs be so,
That thou and I a bouting-match must have,
Let it not breaking of old friendship do,
This is the only all-a-boone I crave.

Remember Stowe, the Bristol Carmelite,
Who, when John Clarkynge, one of mickle lore,
Did throw his gauntlet-pen, with him to fight,
He shewed small wit, and shewed his weakness more.

This is my 'formance, which I now have writ,
The best performance of my little wit.