Hunt and Lee, comps. The Book of the Sonnet. 1867.
II. To One Who Objected to Pride in His MistressEdmund Spenser (1552?1599)
R
In finding fault with her too portly pride.
The thing which I do most in her admire
Is of the world unworthy most envìde:
For in those lofty looks is close implied
Scorn of base things, and ’sdain of foul dishonor;
Threatening rash eyes which gaze on her so wide,
That loosely they ne dare to look upon her.
Such pride is praise; such portliness is honor,
That boldened innocence bears in her eyes;
And her fair countenance, like a goodly banner,
Spreads in defiance of all enemies.
Was never in this world aught worthy tried,
Without some spark of such self-pleasing pride.