74 FLORA AND THALIA. 



TO THE KING-CUP. 

 Simple pledge of June's returning, 



Pleasing 'tis to see thy bloom, 

 Winter's rudest terrors spurning, 



Rising forth from Nature's tomb. 



Thy bright form betokens pleasure. 



When no piercing winds assail ; 



* June's creations, brightest treasure. 



Soon will breathe a sweeter gale. 



Yet, bright flow'r, thy fate too often 



Emblem is of others' woe ; 

 When warm airs stern winter soften. 



Thy rich petals burst and blow. 



But with sithe the mower hieing 

 To the mead with anxious breath ; 



Then around thee danger's flying. 



Then, bright flower, you sink in death. 



So it is with human sorrow. 



Some dear friend smiles on our joy, 

 Anticipation cheers the morrow, 



Bliss feels then no dread alloy. 

 But alas ! stern sickness seizing. 



Sinks the sufferer to his doom ; 

 When the soul, with prospects pleasing. 



Mounts to joys beyond the tomb. 



ALTERED FROM LACy's PRIMROSE. 



