Sonnet CXLIX

How hast thine assurance burned an exquisite glow,
And marked a voyage deprived at thine side,
For dishonor’s vile shroud deceptions show,
Retreating amid foul beseeching pride?
That ample joy replete with mem’ries tossed,
Hath stormed mine depths in rhythmic reverie
To freeze the pain of my war-torn soul lost,
And stirs the breath and sets mine spirit free:
Beyond thy blame give increase to my bliss;
Yet thou remain, and I do love thee still:
That enemy’s grief seeks but sorrow’s kiss
To summon the stalwart defense at will.
Alas! Released woe tis balm upon quill,
For with each brush thus saves this bard from ill.