LXXV. Of all the Kings that ever here did reign

Sir Philip Sidney (1554–1586)

OF all the Kings that ever here did reign;

EDWARD named FOURTH; as first in praise I name.

Not for his fair outside, nor well-lined brain;

Although less gifts imp feathers oft on Fame.

Nor that he could young-wise wise-valiant, frame

His sire’s revenge, joined with a kingdom’s gain:

And gained by MARS; could yet mad MARS so tame,

That balance weighed what sword did late obtain.

Nor that he made the fleur de luce so ’fraid,

Though strongly hedged, or bloody lion’s paws;

That witty LOUIS to him a tribute paid.

Nor this, nor that, nor any such small cause;

But only for this worthy Knight durst prove

To lose his crown, rather than fail his love.