Page:Tixall Poetry.djvu/457



1em Though without suspition of flatterie I might in more ample and freer tearmes, intymate my affection unto you, yet having so sensible a taste of your generous and noble disposition, which, without this habit of ceremony can estimate my love; I will rather affect brevitie, though it shoulde seeme my fault, then by my tedious complement, to trouble mine owne opinion settled in your judgment and discretion. I make you the patron of this Epistle of the Black Prince, which I pray you accept, till more easier houres may offer up from me something more worthy of your view, and my travell. Yours, truly devoted, MICH. DRAYTON.