Seccombe and Arber, comps. Elizabethan Sonnets. 1904.
Parthenophil and ParthenopheOde 10. Why doth heaven bear a sun
Barnabe Barnes (1569?–1609)W
To give the world a heat?
Why, there, have stars a seat?
On earth, when all is done!
P
Doth give a greater heat!
Such fair bright blazing stars;
Which still make open wars
With those in heaven’s degree.
These stars far brighter be
Than brightest of heaven’s stars!
Violets, or lilies,
Or bright daffodillies?
In her clear cheeks, she closes
Sweet damask roses!
In her neck, white lilies!
Why do men sacrifice
Incense to deities?
Her breath more favour gives,
And pleaseth heavenly veins
More than rich sacrifice!