Sonnet IX

Two solitary hearts there were, who met Fortuitously on a barren plain, Whereon had each encounter'd pain, regret, Denial, folly - all in love's disdain. They had known joy there too, a fleeting boon Dearly rememberèd among such banes, Which earnestly they sought when each was shown The glint thereof among the other's pangs, And with it hope. But hope too soon is dash'd When, though the balm of love is sweet, the past Exhumes and in the present is rehash'd, Polluting ev'ry joy; until at last, Forlorn, each heart resumes his lonely way, Seeking once more his sorrow to allay.