THE CAPTIVE AND THE FLOWERS. 269 



My blossoms near thee I disclose, 

 And hear thy wretched plight ; 



Thou meanest me, no doubt, the rose, 

 Thou noble, hapless knight. 



A lofty mind in thee is seen, 



And in thy bosom reigns the queen 

 Of flowers, as is her right. 



Thy crimson bud I duly prize 



In outer robe of green ; 

 For this thou'rt dear in maiden's eyes, 



As gold and jewels' sheen. 

 Thy wreath adorns the fairest brow, 

 And yet the flower it is not thou, 



Whom my still wishes mean. 



The little rose has cause for pride, 

 And upwards aye will soar ; 



Yet am I held by many a bride 

 The rose's wreath before. 

 23* 



