Robert Browning

“ It may be for yourself, when you meditate,
⁠That you grieve—for slain ruth, murdered truth:
"Though falsehood escape in the end, what boots?
⁠How truth would have triumphed!"—you sigh too late.
13.
Ay, who would have triumphed like you, I say!
⁠Well, it is lost now; well, you must bear,
Abide and grow fit for a better day:
⁠You should hardly grudge, could I be your judge!
But hush! For you, can be no despair:
⁠There ’s amends: 'tis a secret: hope and pray! ”

“ If I acquiesce, why should you be teased
⁠With the conscience-prick and the memory-smart?
5.
But what will God say? Oh, my sweet,
⁠Think, and be sorry you did this thing!
Though earth were unworthy to feel your feet,
⁠There 's a Heaven above may deserve your love:
Should you forfeit Heaven for a snapt gold ring
⁠And a promise broke, were it just or meet? ”