You, Damon, covet to possess The nymph that sparkles in her dress; Would rustling silks and hoops invade, And clasp an armful of brocade. Such raise the price of your delight Who purchase both their red and white, And, pirate-like, surprise your heart With colors of adulterate art. Me, Damon, me the maid enchants Whose cheeks the hand of nature paints; A modest blush adorns her face, Her air an unaffected grace. No art she knows, or seeks to know; No charm to wealthy pride will owe; No gems, no gold she needs to wear; She shines intrinsically fair. Thomas Bedingfield [?—1613] |