William Alexander

1567-1640 / Scotland

Sonet 18

Praise-worthy part where praises praise is plac'd,
As th'Oracle of th'Earth beleeu'd below.
Ile to the world thy beauties wonders show,
O vnstain'd Rose, with Lillies interlac'd:
But what a labour hath my Muse imbrac'd?
Shall I commend the corall, or the snow,
Which such a sweet embalmed breath did blow,
That th'orientall odours are disgrac'd?
Mouth moistned with celestiall Nectar still,
Whose musicke oft my famish'd eares hath fed,
With softned sounds in sugred speeches spred,
Whil'st pearles and rubies did vnfold thy will.
I wish that thy last kisse might stop my breath,
Then I would thinke I died a happie death.
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