James Graham, Marquis of Montrose (1612–1650)

MY dear and only love, I pray

That little world of thee

Be governed by no other sway

But purest monarchy:

For if confusion have a part,

Which virtuous souls abhor,

And hold a synod in thy heart,

I’ll never love thee more.

Like Alexander I will reign,

And I will reign alone:

My thoughts did evermore disdain

A rival on my throne.

He either fears his fate too much,

Or his deserts are small,

Who dares not put it to the touch,

To gain or lose it all.

But, if no faithless action stain

Thy love and constant word,

I’ll make thee famous by my pen,

And glorious by my sword.

I’ll serve thee in such noble ways

As ne’er was known before;

I’ll deck and crown thy head with bays,

And love thee more and more.