The Fifth Decade. Sonnet V. His shadow to Narcissus well presented

Henry Constable (1562–1613)

HIS shadow to Narcissus well presented;

How fair he was, by such attractive love!

So if thou would’st thyself thy beauty prove,

Vulgar breath-mirrors might have well contented,

And to their prayers eternally consented,

Oaths, vows and sighs, if they belief might move:

But more thou forc’st, making my pen approve

Thy praise to all, least any had dissented.

When this hath wrought, thou which before wert known

But unto some, of all art now required;

And thine eyes’ wonders wronged; because not shown

The world, with daily orisons desired.

Thy chaste fair gifts, with learning’s breath is blown.

And thus my pen hath made thy sweets admired.