224 THE ENCHANTED PLANTS. 



The Chestnut, indignant and proud, 

 Frowned, as if he both parties despised, 



And shaking his branches aloud, 



In few words his pretensions comprised. 



*< Sweet Flowret," (he flattered the sex) 

 " I perceive my protection's required. 



And lament yonder coxcomb should vex 

 You, made to be loved and admired. 



" But no wonder he triumphs o'er you, 

 Who ventures with Oaks to compare, 



They whose might Britain's enemies rue, 

 Who the glory of conquerors share. 



" Let fops ring their own empty praises, 



Who true insignificance feel, 

 Self-boasting but ridicule raises, 



Our merits let others reveal." 



The furious Laburnum replied, 



The Chestnut retorted again, 

 The flower with the strongest took side, 



Yet endeavored their rage to restrain. 



