Sonnets

Sonnet 131

art as tyrannous, so as art,
As those whose beauties proudly make them cruel;
For well know’st to my dear doting heart
art the fairest and most precious jewel.
Yet in good faith some say that behold,
face not the power to make love groan;
To say they err, I dare not be so bold,
Although I swear it to my self alone.
And to be sure that is not false I swear,
A thousand groans but thinking on face,
One on another’s neck do witness bear
black is fairest in my judgement’s place.
In nothing art black save in deeds,
And this slander as I think proceeds.

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See its words in the cloud.

Modern spelling for reading. The edition is public domain in the United States. Edition source.