 | The Workes of Benjamin Jonson |  |
22
LXXVI. On Lucy Countesse Of Bedford.
This morning, timely rapt with holy fire,I thought to forme unto my zealous Muse,
What kinde of creature I could most desire,
To honour, serve, and love; as Poets use.
I meant to make her faire, and free, and wise,
Of greatest blood, and yet more good than great,
I meant the day-starre should not brighter rise,
Nor lend like influence from his lucent seat.
I meant she should be courteous, facile sweet,
Hating that solemne vice of Greatnesse, pride;
I meant each softest vertue, there should meet,
Fit in that softer bosome to reside.
Only a learned, and a manly soule
I purpos'd her; that should, with even powers,
The rock, the spindle, and the sheeres controule
Of Destinie, and spin her owne free houres.
Such when I meant to faine, and wish'd to see,
My Muse bade, Bedford write, and that was shee.
| The Workes of Benjamin Jonson | |