I FEED a flame within, which so torments me <br />That it both pains my heart, and yet contents me: <br />'Tis such a pleasing smart, and I so love it, <br />That I had rather die than once remove it. <br /> <br />Yet he, for whom I grieve, shall never know it; <br />My tongue does not betray, nor my eyes show it. <br />Not a sigh, nor a tear, my pain discloses, <br />But they fall silently, like dew on roses. <br /> <br />Thus, to prevent my Love from being cruel, <br />My heart 's the sacrifice, as 'tis the fuel; <br />And while I suffer this to give him quiet, <br />My faith rewards my love, though he deny it. <br /> <br />On his eyes will I gaze, and there delight me; <br />While I conceal my love no frown can fright me. <br />To be more happy I dare not aspire, <br />Nor can I fall more low, mounting no higher.<br /><br />John Dryden<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/hidden-flame-2/
