X.

Not love of you is most that I can bring,

Since what I am to love you is the test,

And should I love you more than any thing

You would but be of idle love possessed,

A mere love wandering in appetite,

Counting your glories and yet bringing none,

Finding in you occasions of delight,

A thief of payment for no service done.

But when of labouring life I make a song

And bring it you, as that were my reward,

To let what most is me to you belong,

Then do I come of high possessions lord,

And loving life more than my love of you

I give you love more excellently true.

Georgian poetry, 1920-22 · 第 72 / 188 题