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Sunday, August 07, 2011

Hidden Flame (John Dryden)


I feed a flame within, which torments me
That it both pains my heart, and yet contains me:
'Tis such a pleasing smart, and I so love it,
That I had rather die than once remove it.

Yet he, for whom I grieve, shall never know it;
My tongue does not betray, nor my eyes show it
Not a sigh, nor a tear, my pain discloses, 
But they fall silently, like dew on roses.


Thus to prevent my Love from being cruel,
My heart's the sacrifice, as 'tis the fuel;
And while I suffer this to give him quiet,
My faith rewards my love, though he deny it.

On his eyes will I gaze, and there delight me;
While I conceal my love no frown can fright me
To be more happy I dare not aspire, 
Nor can I fall more low, mounting no higher.

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