Classic Poem

SONNET V.

Because I know that there is that in me
Of which thou shouldst be proud, and not ashamed, —
Because I feel one made thy choice should be
Not even by fools and slanderers rashly blamed, —
Because I fear, howe'er thy soul may strive
Against the weakness of that inward pain,
The falsehoods which my enemies contrive
Not always seek to wound thine ear in vain, —
Therefore I sometimes weep, when I should smile,
At all the vain frivolity and sin
Which those who know me not (yet me revile) —
My would-be judges — cast my actions in;
But else their malice hath nor sting nor smart —
For I appeal from them, Beloved, to thine own heart!