EYE-SERVICE

Meseems thine eyes are two still-folded lakes

Wherein deep water reflects the guardian sky,

Searching wherein I see how Heaven is nigh

And our broad Earth at peace. So my Love takes

My soul's thin hands and, chafing them, she makes

My life's blood lusty and my life's hope high

For the strong lips and eyes of Poesy,

To hold the world well squandered for their sakes.

I looked thee full this day: thine unveiled eyes

Rayed their swift-searching magic forth; and then

I felt all strength that love can put in men

Whenas they know that loveliness is wise.

For love can be content with no less prize,

To lift us up beyond our mortal ken.