DON BELIANIS OF GREECE[1]
TO DON QUIXOTE OF LA MANCHA.
SONNET.
In slashing, hewing, cleaving, word, and deed,
I was the foremost knight of chivalry,
Stout, bold, expert, as e'er the world did see;
Thousands from the oppressor's wrong I freed;
Great were my feats, eternal fame their meed;
In love I proved my truth and loyalty;
The hugest giant was a dwarf for me;
Ever to knighthood's laws gave I good heed.
My mastery the Fickle Goddess owned,
And even Chance, submitting to control.
Grasped by the forelock, yielded to my will.
Yet—though above yon hornèd moon enthroned
My fortune seems to sit—great Quixote, still
Envy of thy achievements fills my soul.
THE LADY ORIANA[2]
TO DULCINEA DEL TOBOSO.
SONNET.
|
Oh, fairest Dulcinea, could it be! |
