Sonnet 4. Bright Star of Beauty! on whose Eyelids sit

Michael Drayton (1563–1631)

[First printed in 1602 (No. 66), and in all later editions.]

BRIGHT Star of Beauty! on whose Eyelids sit

A thousand nymph-like and enamoured Graces,

The Goddesses of Memory and Wit,

Which there in order take their several places.

In whose dear Bosom, sweet delicious LOVE

Lays down his quiver, which he once did bear,

Since he that blessèd Paradise did prove;

And leaves his mother’s lap, to sport him there.

Let others strive to entertain with words!

My soul is of a braver mettle made:

I hold that vile, which vulgar Wit affords,

In me ’s that faith which Time cannot invade!

Let what I praise, be still made good by you!

Be you most worthy, whilst I am most true!