To Althea, from Prison
WHEN love with unconfined wingsHovers within my gates,And my divine Althea bringsTo whisper at the grates;When I lie tangled in her hairAnd fettered to her eye;The birds that wanton in the airKnow no such liberty.
When flowing cups run swiftly roundWith no allaying Thames,Our careless heads with roses crowned,Our hearts with loyal flames;When thirsty grief in wine we steep,When healths and draughts go free,Fishes that tipple in the deepKnow no such liberty.
When (like committed linnets) IWith shriller throat shall singThe sweetness, mercy, majestyAnd glories of my King;When I shall voice aloud how goodHe is, how great should be,Enlarged winds that curl the floodKnow no such liberty.
Stone walls do not a prison makeNor iron bars a cage;Minds innocent and quiet takeThat for an hermitage;If I have freedom in my love,And in my soul am free,Angels alone that soar aboveEnjoy such liberty.