THE FABLES OF FLORA. 49 



That sway the Crown Imperial sought. 

 With high demand and haughty mien: 



But equal claim a rival brought, 



A rival called the Meadow's Queen. 



" In climes of orient glory bom, 



" Where beauty first and empire grew; 



" Where first unfolds the golden morn, 

 " Where richer falls the fragrant dew: 



" In light's ethereal beauty drest, 



" Behold," he cried, " the favoured flower, 

 " Which Flora's high commands invest 



" With ensigns of imperial power! 



" Where prostrate vales, and blushing meads, 

 " And bending mountains own his sway, 



" While Persia's lord his empire leads, 

 " And bids the trembling world obey; 



