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78

SONNET VIII. IMITATION FROM FAUSTINA MARATTI.

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The attribution of this poem is questionable.

Too beauteous Rival, whose enticing charms
Once to my Heart's sole Darling seem'd so fair,
That oft he praises still thy ivory arms,
Thy ruby lips, blue eyes, and auburn hair;
Say, when he heard thy tongue's seducing strain,
Stood he e'er silent, or with scorn replied?
Or turn'd with alter'd brow of cold disdain
From thy soft smiles, as now from mine, aside?
Once, once too well I know he held thee dear;
And then, when captive to thy sovereign will—
But why that look abash'd, that starting tear,
Those conscious blushes, which my fears fulfil?—
Speak, answer, speak!—Nay, answer not; forbear;
If thou must answer, that he loves thee still.
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