FLORA AND THALIA. 139 



TO THE WALL-FLOWER. 



I WILL not praise the often-flattered rose, 



Or virgin-like, with blushing charms half seen, 

 Or when in dazzling splendour, like a queen, 



All her magnificence of state she shows; 

 No, nor that nun-like lily, which but blows 



Beneath the valley's cool and shady screen; 

 Nor yet the sunflower, that with warrior mien, 



Still eyes the orb of glory where it glows ; 

 But thou, neglected Wall-flower, to my breast 



And muse art dearest, wildest, sweetest flower, 

 To whom alone the privilege is given 



Proudly to root thyself above the rest. 

 As genius does, and from the rocky tower 



Send fragrance to the purest breath of heaven. 



