¶ The Posie.
LEt wits contest, And with their words and posies1 windows fill: Lesse then2 the least Of all thy mercies, is my posie still. This on my ring, This by my picture, in my book I write: Whether I sing, Or say, or dictate, this is my delight. Invention rest, Comparisons go play, wit use thy will: Lesse then the least Of all Gods mercies, is my posie still. |
1 posie or posy. A short motto, often in verse, written or inscribed on a knife, ring, etc. See also Miserie. "Posie" can also mean a bunch of flowers, see Life, Thanksgiving and To All Angels and Saints. (Oxford English Dictionary) [Return] 2 then. Then; than. [Return] Used as a motto to conclude the Preface to the 1633 edition. |
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