Herbert J.C. Grierson, ed. (1886–1960). Metaphysical Lyrics & Poems of the 17th C. 1921.
(c. 1583c. 1643) Aurelian TownshendLoves Victory
V
Are able to subdue an hoast,
And therefore are unlike to boast
The taking of a little prize,
Do not a single heart dispise.
With former love, I durst have sworne
That where a privy coat was worne,
With characters of beauty charm’d,
Thereby it might have scapt unharm’d.
Are proofe against those lookes of thine,
Nor can a Beauty lesse divine
Of any heart be long possest,
Where thou pretend’st an interest.
Alasse is small, but in respect
Of her that did my Love protect,
Were it divulged, deserv’d to be
Recorded for a Victory.
Her lovely face perhaps may say,
Though you have stolen my heart away,
If all your servants prove not true,
May steale a heart or two from you.