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1823–1896

PRELUDES

Coventry Kersey Dighton Patmore

Can ought compared with wedlock be For use? But He who made the heart To use proportions joy. What He Has join'd let no man put apart.

Sweet Order has its draught of bliss Graced with the pearl of God's consent, Ten times delightful in that‘ tis Considerate and innocent.

In vain Disorder grasps the cup; The pleasure's not enjoy'd but spilt, And, if he stoops to lick it up, It only tastes of earth and guilt.

His sorry raptures rest destroys; To live, like comets, they must roam; On settled poles turn solid joys, And sunlike pleasures shine at home.

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PRELUDES · Coventry Kersey Dighton Patmore · Poetry Cove