THISTLE. 



HE knew her mocked by thoughtless youth, 

 He knew her left to ways forlorn; 

 Full well he knew the shallow scorn 

 That mocks on earth the noblest born, 



And blinds our eyes to deeper truth. 



He sought her thro the feverish days, 

 In rocky pastures, hot and dry; 

 Alone beneath the burning sky, 

 He knew her deepest truth must lie 



Beyond his pity or his praise. 



Neglect and care to her were one, 

 She read no glance, she made no sign, 

 But, safe from speech of his or mine, 

 Inspired, controlled, by light divine, 



Her spirit drank the eternal sun! 



74 



