Christmas Candle

Robert Charles Whaites

June 3, 1946

to

June 20, 1998

When in disgrace with Fortune and men's eyes
I all alone beweep my outcast state,
And trouble deaf heaven with my bootless cries,
And look upon myslf and curse my fate ...
Wishing me like to one more rich in hope,
Featur'd like him, like him with friends possess'd,
Desiring this man's art and that man's scope
With what I most enjoy contented least ...

Yet in these thoughts myself almost despising,
Haply I think on thee - and then my state
(Like to the lark at break of day arising
From sullen earth) sings hymns at Heaven's gate;

For thy sweet love remember'd such wealth brings
That then I scorn to change my fate with kings.

F XXX