DAHLIA. 



(dahlia muSTRANEA.) 



' Reproofs of instruction are tlie way of life." 



Proverbs vi. 23. 



Hast thou seen in garden old 



What was once the Dahlia call'd ? 



Gay, indeed, with red and gold. 

 But for beauty ne'er extoll'd. 



Now, this self-same flower is seen. 

 Well-nigh noblest of her race. 



Gorgeous as an Eastern queen, — 

 Moulded yet with chasten' d grace. 



Mark it well, ye matrons fair, — 

 Ye, with mother's love who glow, 



See the fruits of tender care 

 In the Dahlia's perfect blow. 



45 



