I must be flattered. The imperious <br />Desire speaks out. Lady, I am content <br />To play with you the game of Sentiment, <br />And with you enter on paths perilous; <br />But if across your beauty I throw light, <br />To make it threefold, it must be all mine. <br />First secret; then avowed. For I must shine <br />Envied,--I, lessened in my proper sight! <br />Be watchful of your beauty, Lady dear! <br />How much hangs on that lamp you cannot tell. <br />Most earnestly I pray you, tend it well: <br />And men shall see me as a burning sphere; <br />And men shall mark you eyeing me, and groan <br />To be the God of such a grand sunflower! <br />I feel the promptings of Satanic power, <br />While you do homage unto me alone.<br /><br />George Meredith<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/modern-love-xxviii-i-must-be-flattered/
