Dedicatory Sonnet to William, Earl of Pembroke

Great Earl, whose brave heroic mind is higher
And nobler than thy noble high degree;
Whose outward shape, though it most lovely be.
Doth in fair robes a fairer soul attire:
Who rich in fading wealth, in endless treasure
Of Virtue, Valour, Learning, richer art;
Whose present greatness, men esteem but part
Of what by line of future hope they measure.
Thou worthy son unto a peerless mother.
Thou nephew to great Sidney of renown.
Who hast deserved thy coronet, to crown
With laurel crown, a crown excelling th'other:
I consecrate these rhymes to thy great name.
Which if thou like, they seek no other fame.