WILD-FLOWER SONNETS. 



DOG'S-TOOTH VIOLET. 

 (ERYTHRONIUM.) 



C\F all the glad surprises of the Spring, 



^^^ Each year renewed, yet each year new again, 



None sends a quicker thrill through every vein, 



None speeds the fancy on a swifter wing, 



Than the first vision of thy loveliness, 



lily of the mead, stray child of June ! 

 Dear runaway, thy sisters will come soon ; 

 Meanwhile I take thee to my heart. Confess 



Thy pranks. Why didst thou steal the Violet's name ? 

 Why stain thy pale-green robe ? Didst thou surmise 

 Feigned name or motley cloak could e'er disguise 

 Thy beauty ? Lily art thou just the same. 

 Yet little heart have I thy masque to blame: 



1 love thee ; thou art here: let that suffice. 

 MAY. 



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