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3. To my Mrs. before Mr. Mayes Lucan that I sent her.

Pardon me Lady, that I dare invent
Lines neither worth your view, not my intent.
Nero did murther Lucan, but I doe
Expect a life, and not a death from you:
With Piso and the learned Seneca
He treason against Cæsar did assay;
Yet's Emperour gave him leave to choose by what
Means he would undergo the Law of Fate.
I never did conceive a thought that you
Might think offence, unless affection true;
And that should not your indignation move:
The Gods will give us leave their Heaven to love.
He lives unto Report, and so shall I
(If slain) demonstrate your great Cruelty.

45

You are my Empress; under your fair hand
Send me what Destiny you will command.
My Fate is what you please to have it: I
Live by your kindness, or your coyness dye.