- When I consider everything that grows
- Holds in perfection but a little moment,
- That this huge stage presenteth nought but shows
- Whereon the stars in secret influence comment;
- When I perceive that men as plants increase,
- Cheered and checked even by the self-same sky,
- Vaunt in their youthful sap, at height decrease,
- And wear their brave state out of memory;
- Then the conceit of this inconstant stay
- Sets you most rich in youth before my sight,
- Where wasteful Time debateth with Decay
- 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.