J. V. Cunningham

Allegiance is assigned Forever when the mind Chooses and stamps the will. Thus, I must love you still Through good and ill. But though we cannot part We may retract the heart And build such privacies As self-regard agrees Conduce to ease. So manners will repair The ravage of despair Which generous love invites, Preferring quiet nights To vain delights.

Speak to her heart! That manic force When wits depart Forbids remorse. Dream with her dreaming Until her lust Seems to her seeming An act of trust! Do without doing! Love’s wilful potion Veils the ensuing, And brief, commotion.