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The poetical and dramatic works of Sir Charles Sedley

Collected and Edited from the Old Editions: With a preface on the text, explanatory and textual notes, an appendix containing works of doubtful authenticity, and a bibliography: By V. de Sola Pinto

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CV
THE PETITION

[_]

The attribution of this poem is questionable.

Oh Lycidas, why thus alone
With Arms a cross, dost sigh and moan?
Can thy Cosmelia prove unkind,
Or ought prevail to change her Mind?
She was, she is great Nature's Pride;
In Goodness, to the best ally'd
In her bright Eyes such Beauties Shine,
Mercy would make her all divine;
O ye propitious Powers above,
That gently do incline to love,
Convey into her Breast soft Fire,
Amorous Thoughts, and kind Desire.
But if it be decreed by Fate,
That I must love, and she must hate;
Ah! let her not Disdain to give
A Tear, when I no longer live.