Sonnet 78

So oft have I invok'd thee for my MuseAnd found such fair assistance in my verseAs every alien pen hath got my useAnd under thee their poesy disperse. 4Thine eyes, that taught the dumb on high to singAnd heavy ignorance aloft to fly,Have added feathers to the learned's wingAnd given grace a double majesty. 8Yet be most proud of that which I compile,Whose influence is thine, and born of thee:In others' works thou dost but mend the style,And arts with thy sweet graces graced be; 12But thou art all my art, and dost advanceAs high as learning my rude ignorance.

1–14 Cf. n.3 As: thatuse: habit4 under thee: under thy patronagedisperse: spread abroad9 compile: compose10 influence: inspiration13 advance: raise