John Milton (1608–1674)

To Cyriac Skinner

CYRIAC, this three-years-day these eyes, though clear,

To outward view, of blemish or of spot,

Bereft of light their seeing have forgot;

Nor to their idle orbs doth sight appear

Of sun, or moon, or star, throughout the year,

Or man, or woman. Yet I argue not

Against Heaven’s hand or will, nor bate a jot

Of heart or hope, but still bear up and steer

Right onward. What supports me dost thou ask?

The conscience, friend, to have lost them, overplied

In Liberty’s defence, my noble task,

Of which all Europe rings from side to side.

This thought might lead me through the world’s vain mask,

Content, though blind, had I no better guide.