University of Virginia Library

29. Wisdom.

Thou matchless darling of the heavenly race,
Minerva decked and adorn'd with grace
And sacred beauty. thou that wilt not be
Devirginated by the proudest he
That e're assay'd with vigor or with tears:
I have consum'd the morning of my years
In wooing thee, yet am as far to win
Thy sacred love, as when I did begin.
I cleav'd the waters like a true Meander;
I sought thee here, and did pursue thee yonder;
Like poor Alphæus I have followed thee,
But Arethusa thou hast prov'd to me.
I cannot gain thee, neither can I rest
Till thou residest in my longing breast.
How shall I win thee? how shall I obtain thee?
Thou glorious prize, what shall I do to gain thee?
Thou happy object, thou wilt not be sold
For sums of silver, or for heaps of gold.
The Indian Gems, or Neptunes Corals be
Of no esteem, of no validity
To win this Paragon. 'Tis only Jove
That keeps her seated in his tower above,
That can procure her me; therefore I'le pray
Unto the King of Heaven, that I may
Be wise: Thou mover of Celestial motion,
Attend to my petition and devotion:
Thee I appeal to, under whose protection
Remains the Mistress of my best affection.
I am in love, the object is thy daughter:
Long have I woo'd, and longer have I sought her;
Long have I wisht, and labour'd to obtain her;
But my ignoble person cannot gain her.
Do thou therefore be pleased to infuse
My breast with her; do thou assist my Muse
With heavenly wisedom; for she'l never be
Attain'd for me, if not infus'd by thee.