Miscellaneous works of George Wither :: :: University of Virginia Library

When I had pen'd this, and o'erview'd the same,
Therewith consid'ring what a worm I am,
What they are, who, offence thereat may take;
What misconstructions, Prejudice may make;
With what scorn and contempt it may be read;
And, having therewithal considered
That, I, am one adhering to no Faction,
To give me countenance in such an Action.
Nor having in my self, pow'r to defend me,
From Injuries, nor Patron to befriend me;
It quail'd my Courage; and I'll not dissemble,
It made my heart ake, and my Flesh to tremble.
And I had hid my Talent in the ground,
Unless, a timely Cordial had been found.
But, he who gave it, my faint heart reviv'd;
From him, new Resolutions I receiv'd,
Wherewith confirm'd, my Soul to him addrest
Such Musings, as are next, in Words exprest.