THE HOLLY-TREE 223 



The eye that contemplates it will perceive 



Its glossy leaves, 



Ordered by an intelligence so wise 

 As might confound the Atheist's sophistries. 



Below, a circling fence, its leaves are seen, 



Wrinkled and keen; 

 No grazing cattle through their prickly round 



Can reach to wound; 

 But, as they grow where nothing is to fear, 

 Smooth and unarmed the pointless leaves appear. 



I love to view these things with curious eyes, 



And moralize; 

 And in this wisdom of the Holly-tree 



Can emblem see 



Wherewith, perchance, to make a pleasant rhyme, 

 One which may profit in the after-time. 



Thus, though abroad perchance I might appear 



Harsh and austere, 

 To those who on my leisure would intrude 



Reserved and rude, 



Gentle at home amid my friends I'd be, 

 Like the high leaves upon the Holly-tree. 



And should my youth, as youth is apt I know, 



Somehow a harshness show, 

 All vain asperities I day by day 



Would wear away, 



