Barnabe Barnes (1569?–1609)

AH, sweet Content, where, is thy mild abode?

Is it with shepherds and light-hearted swains,

Which sing upon the downs and pipe abroad,

Tending their flocks and cattle on the plains?

Ah, sweet Content, where dost thou safely rest?

In heaven with angels which the praises sing

Of him that made and rules at his behest

The minds and hearts of every living thing?

Ah, sweet Content, where doth thine harbour hold?

Is it in churches with religious men

Which please the gods with prayers manifold,

And in their studies meditate it then?

Whether thou dost in heaven, or earth appear,

Be where thou wilt, thou wilt not harbour here!