Sonnet XII. I wish sometimes, although a worthless thing

Giles Fletcher (1586?–1623)

I WISH sometimes, although a worthless thing,

Spurred by ambition, glad for to aspire,

Myself a Monarch, or some mighty King:

And then my thoughts do wish for to be higher

But when I view what winds the cedars toss,

What storms men feel that covet for renown;

I blame myself that I have wished my loss:

And scorn a Kingdom, though it give a Crown.

A’ LICIA thou, the wonder of my thought,

My heart’s content, procurer of my bliss;

For whom, a Crown I do esteem as nought:

And Asia’s wealth, too mean to buy a kiss.

Kiss me, sweet Love! this favour do for me;

Then Crowns and Kingdoms shall I scorn for thee.