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XV.
When
I consider every thing that grows
Holds in perfection
but a little moment,
That this huge stage presenteth
nought but shows
Whereon the stars in secret
influence comment;
When I perceive that men as plants
increase,
Cheered and cheque'd even by the self-same
sky,
Vaunt in their youthful sap, at height decrease,
And wear their brave state out of memory;
Then the
conceit of this inconstant stay
Sets you most rich in
youth before my sight,
Where wasteful Time debateth
with Decay,
To change your day of youth to sullied
night;
And all in war with Time for love of you,
As he takes from you, I engraft you new.
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