Poems, by J.D. VVith elegies on the authors death

To S^r. H. G.

SIR,

IN the history or stile of friendship, which is best written both in deeds and words, a letter which is of a mixed nature, and hath something of both is a mixt parenthesis: It may be left out, yet it contri∣butes, though not to the beeing, yet to the verdure, and freshnesse thereof. Letters have truly the same office, as oathes. As these amongst light and empty men, are but fillings, and pauses, and interjections: but with waightier, they are sad attestations: So are letters, to some complement, and obligation to others. For mine, as I never authorized my servant to lye in my behalfe (for if it were officious in him, it might be worse in mee) so I allow my letters much lesse that ci∣vill dishonesty, both because they goe from mee more considerately, and because they are permanent, for in them I may speake to you in your chamber a yeare hence before I know not whom, and not heare my selfe. They shall therefore ever keepe the sincerity and intemeratenesse of the fountaine whence they are derived. And as wheresoever these leaves fall, the root is in my heart, so shall they, as that sucks good affections towards you there, have ever true impressi∣ons thereof. Thus much information is in very leaves, that they can tell what the tree is, and these can tell

you I am a friend and an honest man. Of what gene∣rall use, the fruit should speake, and I have none: and of what particular profit to you, your application and experimenting should tell you, and you can make none of such a nothing; Yet even of barren Sicamores, such as I, there were use, if either any light flashings, or scorching vehemencies, or sudden showers made you need so shadowie an example or Remembrancer. But (Sir) your fortune and minde do you this happy in∣jury, that they make all kinde of fruits uselesse unto you; Therefore I have placed my love wisely where I need communicate nothing.

All this, though perchance you reade it not till Michaelmas, was told you at Michin. 15. Aug. 1607.