LVIII.

_By her that is most assured to her selfe._

Weake is th’assurance that weake flesh reposeth

In her own powre, and scorneth others ayde;

That soonest fals, when as she most supposeth

Her selfe assur’d, and is of nought affrayd,

All flesh is frayle, and all her strength unstayd,

Like a vaine bubble blowen up with ayre:

Devouring tyme and changeful chance have prayd*

Her glorious pride, that none may it repayre.

Ne none so rich or wise, so strong or fayre,

But fayleth, trusting on his owne assurance:

And he that standeth on the hyghest stayre

Fals lowest; for on earth nought hath endurance.

Why then doe ye, proud fayre, misdeeme so farre,

That to your selfe ye most assured arre!

[Footnote: LVIII.—_By her_, &c. _By_ is perhaps a misprint for _to_; or

this title may belong to Sonnet LIX. H.] [* _Prayd_, preyed upon.]