Page 367
To the Countesse of Bedford.
Happiest and worthyest Lady,
I Do not remember that ever I have seen a petition in verse, I would not therefore be singular, nor adde these to your other papers. I have yet adventured so neare as to make a petitiō for verse, It is for those your Ladiship did me the honor to see in a Twicknam gar∣den, except you repēt your making & having mended your judgement by thinking worse, that is, better, be∣cause juster, of their subject. They must needs be an excellent exercise of your wit, which speake so well of so ill. I humbly begge them of your Ladiship, with two such promises, as to any other of your composi∣tions were threatnings: That I will not shew them, & that I will not beleeve them; And nothing should be so used which comes from your braine or heart. If I should confesse a fault in the boldnesse of asking them, or make a fault by doing it in a longer letter, your Ladiship might use your stile and old fashion of the Court towards mee, and pay mee with a pardon. Here therefore I humbly kisse your Ladiships faire learned, hands and wish you good wishes and speedy grants.
Your Ladiships servant JO. DONNE.