Canzon 21. And is it by immutable Decree

Anonymous

AND is it by immutable Decree

(Immutable, yet cruel Ordnance!)

Ordained (still forced, I cry, “O strange impiety!”)

On True Love, to impose such tyrant penance?

That We, unto each other shall surrender

The sealed indentures of our love compacted;

And that thereof we make such loyal tender

As best shall seem to them that so enacted!

Then list, while I advertise once again,

“Though we yield up our charters so ensealed:

Yet see that thou safeguard my counterpane!

And I, in heart, shall keep thy bond uncancelled;

And so hereafter (if, at least, you please!)

We’ll plead this Redelivery was by duress!”