When I consider everything that
Holds in perfection but a little moment,
That this huge stage presenteth nought but
Whereon the stars in secret influence comment;
When I perceive that men as plants increase,
Cheered and check'd even by the selfsame sky,
Vaunt in their youthful sap, at height decrease,
And wear their brave state out of memory;
Then the conceit of this inconstant
Sets you most rich in youth before my sight,
Where wasteful Time debateth with
To change your day of youth to sullied night; And all in war with Time for love of you, As he takes from you,
I engraft you new.
