How often have your walls, embattlements br Defended dauntless virtue lest it fall br To challenges, temptations, let defense br Against attacks, - hold strong, defeat them all? br br Each time my hand approaches, I recall, br You turn your eyes and lips or breasts away, br No mass retreat, just subtle, quiet, small br Withdrawals fending off without delay br br My overtures as oft so still we lay br Ourselves in compromise upon love's bed. br Sweet promises, faint whispers yesterday, br Lie dormant, mute, unheard, as if not said. br br Refrain from love again, tonight, lie still br As I defend against your driven will.