Page:Oxford Book of English Verse 1250-1900.djvu/512

 Of all mankind I loved the best A nymph so far above the rest That we outshined the Blest above; In beauty she, as I in love.

And therefore They, who could not bear To be outdone by mortals here, Among themselves have placed her now, And left me wretched here below.

All other fate I could have borne, And even endured her very scorn; But oh! thus all at once to find That dread account—both dead and kind! What heart can hold? If yet I live, 'Tis but to show how much I grieve.

THOMAS OTWAY

1652-1685

419. The Enchantment

I did but look and love awhile, 'Twas but for one half-hour; Then to resist I had no will, And now I have no power.

To sigh and wish is all my ease; Sighs which do heat impart Enough to melt the coldest ice, Yet cannot warm your heart.

O would your pity give my heart One corner of your breast, 'Twould learn of yours the winning art, And quickly steal the rest.