“Because I have thee still kept from lies and blame”

Song Meaning

These lyrics open with a stark declaration of betrayal. The speaker addresses an "unkind tongue," accusing it of causing "wreak and shame" despite the speaker's past efforts to protect and honor it. It's a raw, immediate expression of feeling wronged and unsupported. The central tension here lies in the profound disconnect between the speaker's past actions and present reality. They assert, "Because I have thee still kept from lies and blame / And to my power always have I thee honoured," setting up a clear expectation of reciprocity. Yet, when in "need of succour most," the very entity they honored stands "like one afeard, Alway most cold," offering only speech that is "unperfect and lame." What truly makes these lyrics hit hard is the striking personification of the speaker's own emotional responses. Their "salt tears," which appear "again my will each night," ironically vanish "when I should make my moan." Similarly, "ready sighs" that would normally provide release are "slack when that ye should outstart." This internal rebellion of one's own body against the need for expression deepens the sense of isolation and frustration. Ultimately, this double betrayal—by an external "unkind tongue" and by their own uncooperative emotions—leaves the speaker with a poignant, silent truth. The final line, "And only my look declareth my heart," suggests a sorrow so profound and inexpressible that it transcends words, tears, or sighs. It's a powerful, quiet testament to an overwhelming, unvented grief.