Later Sonnets: To One Who Had Left Her Convent to Marry

A YEAR ago you gave yourself to God.
It was a noble gift and nobly given ;
And we, who watched you as you fearless trod,
Like one inspired, your pilgrimage to Heaven,
Rejoiced, poor sinners, there was still this leaven,
For a bad world, this bud on Aaron's rod,
This virgin still at watch with the wise seven,
And, envying you, we almost envied God.
— A year ago ! Another service now
Moves your delight, another noble whim,
Another bridegroom and another vow.
Again we envy you and envy him.
First God's, then Man's ! Your love all ranks would level
Who knows ? Next year may add a third, the Devil.