XVIII. With what sharp checks I in myself am shent

Sir Philip Sidney (1554–1586)

WITH what sharp checks I in myself am shent,

When into REASON’s audit I do go;

And by just counts, myself a bankrupt know

Of all those goods which heaven to me hath lent.

Unable quite, to pay even Nature’s rent,

Which unto it by birthright I do owe:

And which is worse, no good excuse can show,

But that my wealth I have most idly spent.

My youth doth waste, my knowledge brings forth toys;

My wit doth strive those passions to defend,

Which for reward, spoil it with vain annoys.

I see my course to lose myself doth bend;

I see, and yet no greater sorrow take,

Than that I lose no more for STELLA’s sake.