A Pirate's Sonnet

Through darkest ocean, o'er treacherous isle, After ages of quest on wood, under sail, While waters enchant and mermen beguile, What fortune I find! In lovely detail -- Ringed gold upon silver, in knotted light; What ancient craftsman did fashion such things! In rubies, in crowns, my soul finds delight, To I, only I, the secrets of kings. All I have lost, single vision at sight, Men drown'd in black seas at my fell command, Not beauty, not mercy, follows my plight, Treasure, fair riches, forsaken at hand. Yet sorrow glitters amongst these old jewels, 'Tis true of value, but still gold of fools.