POETRY OF THE ROSE. 105 



— To endure the livery of a nun ; 



For aye to be in shady cloister mewed — 



To undergo such maiden pilgrimage : 



But earthlier happy is the Rose distill'd 



Than that which, withering on the virgin thorn. 



Grows, lives, and dies, in single blessedness. 



Some to kill cankers in the Musk Rose-buds. 



Why should I joy in an abortive birth 1 



At Christmas I no more desire a Rose 



Than wish a snow in May's new-fangled shows. 



FROM THE PERSIAN OF HAFIZ. 



When the young Rose, in crimson gay, 



Expands her beauties to the day. 

 And foliage fresh her leafless boughs o'erspread ; 



In homage to her sovereign power. 



Bright regent of each subject flower. 

 Low at her feet the violet bends its head. Ode IX. 



See where the Rose and Spring to mirth awake ! 

 So cheerful looks the Rose, 'twere wisdom's part 

 To tear the root of sorrow from the heart. 



Soft comes the morning wind ; the wanton Rose 

 Bursts from its cup to kiss the gale that blows ; 

 Its silken garment wounds in tender play. 

 And leaves its body naked to the day. Ode XIV. 



