o <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />WE, that did nothing study but the way <br />To love each other, with which thoughts the day <br />Rose with delight to us and with them set, <br />Must learn the hateful art, how to forget. <br />We, that did nothing wish that Heaven could give <br />Beyond ourselves, nor did desire to live <br />Beyond that wish, all these now cancel must, <br />As if not writ in faith, but words and dust. <br />Yet witness those clear vows which lovers make, <br />Witness the chaste desires that never brake <br />Into unruly heats; witness that breast <br />Which in thy bosom anchor'd his whole rest-- <br />'Tis no default in us: I dare acquite <br />Thy maiden faith, thy purpose fair and white <br />As thy pure self. Cross planets did envy <br />Us to each other, and Heaven did untie <br />Faster than vows could bind. Oh, that the stars, <br />When lovers meet, should stand opposed in wars! <br /> <br />Since then some higher Destinies command, <br />Let us not strive, nor labour to withstand <br />What is past help. The longest date of grief <br />Can never yield a hope of our relief: <br />Fold back our arms; take home our fruitless loves, <br />That must new fortunes try, like turtle-doves <br />Dislodged from their haunts. We must in tears <br />Unwind a love knit up in many years. <br />In this last kiss I here surrender thee <br />Back to thyself.--So, thou again art free: <br />Thou in another, sad as that, resend <br />The truest heart that lover e'er did lend. <br />Now turn from each: so fare our sever'd hearts <br />As the divorced soul from her body parts.<br /><br />Henry King Bishop of Chichester<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/a-renunciation-2/
