Canzon 22. It was not long ago, since, like a wanton

Anonymous

IT was not long ago, since, like a wanton,

Froward, displeased with that it loves, I wis,

Improved, I did write to thee, a Canton,

Wherein I seemed to turn LOVE out of service.

Well said I herein, that I did but “seem” it!

Loath to depart, he still retained to me;

Although displeased, yet each one well might deem,

He was my servant, while he wore my livery!

Pensively grieved with that, that I had done,

I wrote a Sonnet, which, by syllable,

Eat up the former, and withal craved pardon;

Vowing a large amends, as time should able.

“But who beyond his power vows, offends!

Presumptuous as thou art! to name Amends.”