Sonnet XVIII. Cupid had done some heinous act or other

Richard Linche (fl. 1596–1601)

CUPID had done some heinous act or other,

that caused IDALEA whip him very sore.

The stubborn boy away runs from his mother,

protesting stoutly to return no more.

By chance, I met him; who desired relief,

and craved that I, some lodging would him give.

Pitying his looks, which seemed drowned in grief,

I took him home; there thinking he should live.

But see the Boy! Envying at my life

(which never sorrow, never love had tasted),

He raised within my heart such uncouth strife;

that, with the same, my body now is wasted,

By thankless LOVE, thus vilely am I used!

By using kindness, I am thus abused.