University of Virginia Library


51

Constantine IV. 81st King,

Rang the Yeer of Christ 994, fra the begining of the Kingdome 1324, and Rang 2 Yeers.

As blind Ambition, did induce Desire,
And causde him crave, and covet to be Cround:
So Petitors, did punische his Empire,
And it (divided) in distructionn drounde:
Plague, Famen, Force, (this Realme thus Raizde and Rent,)
Vnhappie Prince, his People, both spoilde, & spent.
IN this Intesteine, and no straunger Strife,
There Countrie Friends, wes to thare furie Food:
No Straunger, nor, Outlandishe, lost his Life,
Nor then wes sched, a Dane, nor Britons Blood:
No all wes thares, and thairfor Justlie all,
Both King, and Clamers, for thair Faults did fall.