A SONG by ANNE FINCH

If for a woman I would die,
It should for Gloriana be;
But lovers, you that talk so high,
Inform, whilst in the grave I lie,
What reward shall reach to me?

If I my freedom would resign,
That freedom she alone should have;
But tell me, you that can define,
If I by marriage make her mine
Which may be called the greater slave?

Then Gloriana, since 'tis plain,
Love with these two can ne'er agree,
Since death and marriage are his bane,
Those melancholy thoughts we'll flee,
And cheerful lovers always be.

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