Sonnet LXVI. Ah, sweet Content! where is thy mild abode?

Barnabe Barnes (1569?–1609)

AH, sweet Content! where is thy mild abode?

Is it with Shepherds, and light-hearted Swains,

Which sing upon the downs, and pipe abroad,

Tending their flocks and cattle on the plains?

Ah, sweet Content! where dost thou safely rest?

In heaven, with angels? which the praises sing

Of Him that made, and rules at His behest,

The minds and hearts of every living thing.

Ah, sweet Content! where doth thine harbour hold?

Is it in churches, with Religious Men,

Which please the gods with prayers manifold;

And in their studies meditate it then?

Whether thou dost in heaven, or earth appear;

Be where thou wilt! Thou wilt not harbour here!