Sonnet XV. What is the Fair, to whom so long I plead?

William Percy (1575–1648)

Echo.

WHAT is the Fair, to whom so long I plead?Lead.

What is her face, so angel-like?Angel-like.

Then unto Saints in mind, Sh’is not unlike?Unlike.

What may be hoped of one so evil nat’red?Hatred.

O then my woes how shall I ope best?Hope best!

Then She is flexible?She is flexible.

Fie, no, it is impossible!Possible.

About her straight then only our best!You’re best!

How must I first her loves to me approve?Prove!

How if She say I may not kiss her?Kiss her!

For all her bobs I must them bear, or miss her?Yes, sir!

Then will She yield at length to Love?To love!

Even so! Even so! By NARCISSE! is it true?True!

Of thine honesty? I! Adieu!Adieu!