The Resolve

Tell me not of a face that's fair
Nor lip and cheek that's red,
Nor of the tresses of her hair
Nor curls in order laid,
Nor of a rare seraphic voice
That like an angel sings;
Though if I were to take my choice
I would have all these things:
But if that thou wilt have me love,
And it must be a she,
The only argument can move
Is that she will love me.

The glories of your ladies be
But metaphors of things,
And but resemble what we see
Each common object brings.
Roses out-red their lips and cheeks,
Lilies their whiteness stain;
What fool is he that shadows seeks
And may the substance gain?
Then if thou wilt have me love a lass,
Let it be one that's kind:
Else I'm a servant to the glass
That's with Canary lined.

Alexander Brome, 1620-1666

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