Canzon 38. From the revenue of thine eyes’ Exchequer

Anonymous

FROM the revenue of thine eyes’ Exchequer,

My faith, his Subsidy did ne’er detract!

Though in thy favour’s book, I rest a debtor;

Yet, ’mongst accountants who their faith have crackt,

My name thou findest not irrotulate!

I list not stand indebted to infame;

(Foul them befall who pay in counterfeit!

Be they recognised in black Book of Shame!)

But if the Rent, which wont was of assize,

Thou shalt enhance, through pride and coy disdain!

Exacting double tribute to thine eyes;

And yet encroachest on my heart’s domain:

Needs must I wish (though ’gainst my foyalty),

That thou unsceptered be of Nature’s royalty!