Since I have lackt the comfort of that light,
The which was wont to lead my thoughts astray:
I wander as in darkenesse of the night,
affrayd of every dangers least dismay.
Ne ought I see, though in the clearest day,
when others gaze upon theyr shadowes vayne:
but th'onely image of that heavenly ray,
whereof some glance doth in mine eie remayne.
Of which beholding th'Idæa playne,
throgh contemplation of my purest part:
with light thereof I doe my selfe sustayne,
and thereon feed my love-affamisht hart.
But with such brightnesse whylest I fill my mind,
I starve my body and mine eyes doe blynd.