Sonnet XIII. Breathing forth sighs of most heart-breaking might

Richard Linche (fl. 1596–1601)

[The same number is repeated, a kind of double Sonnet on the same thought, being attempted.]

BREATHING forth sighs of most heart-breaking might,

my tears, my sighs, and me, you will despise!

I know, when with the power that in me lies,

and all the prayers and vows that women move,

I shall in humblest mercy-moving wise,

intreat, beseech, desire, and beg your love:

I know, sweet Maiden! all will not remove

flint-hearted rigour from your rocky breast!

But all my means, my suit, and what I prove,

prove bad, and I must live in all unrest.

Dying in life, and living still in death,

And yet nor die, nor draw a life-like breath.