William Alexander

1567-1640 / Scotland

Sonet 19

Let some bewitch'd with a deceitfull show,
Loue earthly things vnworthily esteem'd;
And losing that which cannot be redeem'd,
Pay backe with paine according as they ow:
But I disdaine to cast mine eyes so low,
That for my thoughts ouer base a subiect seem'd,
Which still the vulgar course too beaten deem'd;
And loftier things delighted for to know,
Though presently this plague me but with paine,
And vexe the world with wondring at my woes:
Yet hauing gain'd that long desir'd repose,
My mirth may more miraculous remaine.
That for the which long languishing I pine,
It is a show, but yet a show diuine.
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