XL. As good to write, as for to lie and groan

Sir Philip Sidney (1554–1586)

AS good to write, as for to lie and groan.

O STELLA dear! how much thy power hath wrought!

Thou hast my mind, none of the basest, brought

My still-kept course, while others sleep, to moan.

Alas, if from the height of Virtue’s throne,

Thou canst vouchsafe the influence of a thought

Upon a wretch, that long thy grace hath sought;

Weigh then, how I, by thee, am overthrown!

And then, think thus, “Although thy beauty be

Made manifest by such a victory;

Yet noblest conquerors do wracks avoid.”

Since then thou hast so far subduèd me

That in my heart I offer still to thee.

O do not let thy temple be destroyed!