Young Lycidas, and hath not left his peer.
Who would not sing for Lycidas? [he knew] 10
[Himself to sing, and build the lofty rhyme.]
He must not float upon his watery bier
Unwept, [and welter to the parching wind],
Without the meed of some melodious tear.
Begin, then, [Sisters of the sacred well] 15
That from beneath the seat of Jove doth spring;
Begin, and somewhat loudly sweep the string.
[Hence] with denial vain and coy excuse: