Prelude of Order and Disorder

Come not too near me with your enemy beauty.
You heard the overture I’ll not forget –
the pleasant distantness of stranger duties.
I would not have you yet.

Order your troops or not to loot my town –
they are disorderly,
and over a brick wall that has fallen down
plunge riots of infantry.

Perhaps this childish ruin is my folly.
Perhaps in love I would not treat you fairly.

Perhaps these shouts for newer strength will end.
Perhaps I want you only as a friend.

Elizabeth, if I annoy
your neighbour care, a fool upstart –
tear gently down and then destroy
the scaffolding round my heart.