Natalia’s Resurrection: Sonnet Ii

'Twas thus with my Natalia, suppliant soul, Who loved young Adrian to her heart's despite, And loved him dearly, yet could not cajole Her fears of ill nor use her woman's right To grant his wish, but ever put away The sweet fulfilment of each day's desire To a new to--morrow void as yesterday. Adrian in vain, with wild hopes high and higher, Essayed to make her convert to his creed. No laggard he to do, devise or dare. But still she failed him ever at his need, And still she gave but tears to his heart's prayer. And days and nights went cheerless for them both, And not a flower was gathered of love's troth.