I do but Ask that you be Always Fair

I do but ask that you be always fair, / That I for ever may continue kind; Knowing me what I am, you should not dare

To lapse from beauty ever, nor seek to bind

My alterable mood with lesser cords:

Weeping and such soft matters but invite

To further vagrancy, and bitter words

Chafe soon to irremediable flight. Wherefore I pray you if you love me dearly

Less dear to hold me than your own bright charms, / Whence it may fall that until death or nearly

I shall not move to struggle from your arms; Fade if you must; I would but bid you be

Like the sweet year, doing all things graciously.