The Second Decade. Sonnet VII. Pity refusing my poor Love to feed

Henry Constable (1562–1613)

PITY refusing my poor Love to feed,

A beggar starved for want of help, he lies;

And at your mouth (the door of Beauty) cries,

That thence some alms of sweet grants might proceed!

But as he waiteth for some almes deed,

A cherry tree before the door he spies.

“O Dear!” quoth he, “two cherries may suffice,

Two only may save life, in this my need!”

But beggars, Can they nought but cherries eat?

Pardon my Love! He is a goddess’ son,

And never feedeth but on dainty meat;

Else need he not to pine, as he hath done.

For only the sweet fruit of this sweet tree,

Can give food to my Love, and life to me.