Herbert J.C. Grierson, ed. (1886–1960). Metaphysical Lyrics & Poems of the 17th C. 1921.

1605–1654 William Habington

To Roses in the bosome of Castara

YEE blushing Virgins happy are

In the chaste Nunn’ry of her brests,

For hee’d prophane so chaste a faire,

Who ere should call them Cupids nests.

Transplanted thus how bright yee grow;

How rich a perfume doe yee yeeld?

In some close garden, Cowslips so

Are sweeter then i’ th’ open field.

In those white cloysters live secure

From the rude blasts of wanton breath,

Each houre more innocent and pure,

Till you shall wither into death.

Then that which living gave you roome,

Your glorious sepulcher shall be,

There wants no marble for a tombe,

Whose brest hath marble beene to me.