The Fourth Decade. Sonnet II. Sweet Sovereign! since so many minds remain

Henry Constable (1562–1613)

SWEET Sovereign! since so many minds remain

Obedient subjects at thy beauty’s call!

So many hearts bound in thy hairs as thrall!

So many eyes die with one look’s disdain!

Go, seek the honour that doth thee pertain!

That the Fifth Monarchy may thee befall.

Thou hast such means to conquer men withal,

As all the world must yield, or else be slain.

To fight, thou needst no weapons but thine eyes!

Thine hair hath gold enough to pay thy men!

And for their food, thy beauty will suffice!

For men and armour, Lady, care have none!

For one will sooner yield unto thee then

When he shall meet thee naked all alone.