Profess the virtue of abiding love,
and hide the offending hate.
Give me tenderness based on devotion.
Give me concern that seeks my good.
Give me the unshaken loyalty,
(that I should expect from my mate).

Honor the virtue of our true love,
and banish the brandished belt.
I should not question you for lost devotion.
I should not scold you for lost concern.
I should not beat you for lost loyalty,
(though the urge is sorely felt).

Celebrate the virtue of sweet, sweet love,
and dismiss the burning bed.
The Lord will bless us for our devotion.
The Lord will keep us for our concern.
The Lord will reward our unshaken loyalty,
(and have just cause to strike us dead).

Tossed aside the fragile rose, unable e'er to hurt you,
Gentle symbol and reminder of abiding love's eternal virtue.