Long Plighted

Is it worth while, dear, now, 

To call for bells, and sally forth arrayed 

For marriage-rites -- discussed, decried, delayed 

   So many years? 

   Is it worth while, dear, now, 

To stir desire for old fond purposings, 

By feints that Time still serves for dallyings, 

   Though quittance nears? 

   Is it worth while, dear, when 

The day being so far spent, so low the sun, 

The undone thing will soon be as the done, 

   And smiles as tears? 

   Is it worth while, dear, when 

Our cheeks are worn, our early brown is gray; 

When, meet or part we, none says yea or nay, 

   Or heeds, or cares? 

   Is it worth while, dear, since 

We still can climb old Yell'ham's wooded mounds 

Together, as each season steals its rounds 

   And disappears? 

   Is it worth while, dear, since 

As mates in Mellstock churchyard we can lie, 

Till the last crash of all things low and high 

   Shall end the spheres?

-o0o-