Il Doge Di Venezia - II - April 3rd

My trusted friend Sir Matthew Greatcock met
Me on this morning. Cool and calm and in-
Offensive was the weather, breezes sighed
Across my path and playful sun would dance,
Illuminating Venice – cadence whirled
With cadence round the streets and cobbled lanes.
The water in the rivers sang a tune
To my arrival, pretty as the day
Which greeted me itself.
     A rest I had
A short’ning while for I was greatly tired.
The ride from Nottingham was long and slow
And rough upon my brittle bones, although
Wild fancy took me by the hand and led
Me helpless down the halls of pleasure, foot-
Steps echoing among the glitt’ring ways
Which smiled in kindness as I passed. In truth
It was a handsome day, though weather gives
Me not delight. So eager I am, sure –
Tomorrow does commence my spree throughout
The west of Europe with Moretti whom
I meet when dawn will peak above the edge
Of wide horizons, bathing all in gold
And orange luxury. For now I sit
To write my notes that never shall I lose -
For violent, twisting, winding thrill does storm
Around my guts and gently squeeze my heart.
Until tomorrow shall I sleep and write
Upon the evening then. For now I close
My books to dream of stars and poison sweet.