Sonnet 4. These purest flames, kindled by beauties rare These purest flames, kindled by beauties rare, Strengthen by love, assured by destiny, In whom I live, which in me cannot die, Which are what I am, and I what they are, True-vestal-like, which with most holy care Preserve the sacred fires, religiously I do maintain, and that no end they try Of my best parts their subject I prepare: And with a mind free from all false desires, Untouched by other loves, of vows untrue, I worship her that shineth in these fires: Thinking of shame, nay sin, if that in me Those fairest beams, of heaven the image true, With powers of meaner worth should matchèd be. |
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