Sonnet V

BECAUSE I know that there is that in me Of which thou shouldst be proud, and not ashamed,-- Because I feel one made thy choice should be Not even by fools and slanderers rashly blamed,-- Because I fear, howe'er thy soul may strive Against the weakness of that inward pain, The falsehoods which my enemies contrive Not always seek to wound thine ear in vain,-- Therefore I sometimes weep, when I should smile, At all the vain frivolity and sin Which those who know me not (yet me revile)-- My would-be judges--cast my actions in; But else their malice hath nor sting nor smart-- For I appeal from them, Beloved, to thine own heart!