GREAT WHITE WATER-LILY. 95 



It was the time when Ouse display 'd 



His Lilies newly blown; 

 Their beauties I intent survey'd, 



And one I wish'd my own. 



With cane extended far I sought 



To steer it close to land; 

 But still the prize, though nearly caught, 



Escaped my eager hand. 



Beau marked my unsuccessful pains 



With fix'd considerate face, 

 And puzzling set his puppy brains 



To comprehend the case. 



But with a cherup clear and strong, 



Dispersing all his dream, 

 I thence withdrew, and follow'd long 



The windings of the stream. 



My ramble ended, I returned; 



Beau, trotting far before, 

 The floating wreath again discern'd, 



And, plunging, left the shore. 



I saw him, with that Lily cropp'd, 



Impatient swim to meet 

 My quick approach, and soon he dropp'd 



The treasure at my feet. 

 Charm'd with the sight, the world, I cried, 



Shall hear of this thy deed; 

 My dog shall mortify the pride 



Of man's superior breed: 



But chief myself I will enjoin, 



Awake at duty's call, 

 To show a love as prompt as thine 



To Him who gives me all." 



