Note 1. In the first edition of Walton’s Angler this poem is prefaced by the remark, “as some say written by Dr. D. [Donne.]” In later editions is added “and some say, written by Sir Henry Wotton.” In Ashmolean MS. 38, the verses are entitled Doctor Donne’s Valediction to the World, and in Wit’s Interpreter, 1671, it is credited to Sir Kenelm Digby. Sir H. Nicolas is authority for the statement that the verses are said to have been written by Raleigh in the Tower shortly before his execution, but although, as Schelling says, “‘the bold and insolent vein’ is not unlike Sir Walter,” there seems to be no other authority for ascribing them to him. Archbishop Sancroft gives them with the title An Hermit in an arbour, with a prayer-book in his hand, his foot spurning a globe, thus speaketh (MS. Tam.), but does not mention any author’s name. [back]
Note 4. Vie angels with India: Vie, here a technical term from the game gleck or primero, signifying to wager on a hand of cards. Hence here to wager angel-nobles to an amount such as India, with her wealth, would not be able to equal, or “cover.” (Schelling.) [back]
