It 



The Asters could not hide their grace 

 But were praised by all around, 



And so were the Geraniutns, 

 In baskets alone we found. 



The Balsams merited the praise 



They met in every eye, 

 Their delicate petals keeping 



So fresh as the days went by. 



Here Lily buds ope'd in beauty 

 Their white petals ev'ry day. 



And those lost none of their sweetness 

 That were brought from far away. 



The Dahlias were not forgotten, 

 The boquet, and large ones too, 



But choice in their selection 



Their prize with the rest they drew; 



Yes forming a brilliant anchor 

 With cross of a darker hue. 



They taught us ever together 



To keep them, life's journey through. 



Our crosses are often heavy 

 Like the one of velvet here, 



May we ever twine around them 

 An unbroken wreath to cheer. 



Wild flowers were not forgotten 

 That bloom all along our way, 



But show'd the beauty around us 

 We pass by every day. 



Nor were leaves and blossoms only 

 All in our lov'd fair that shone. 



Plants nodded to us their welcome 

 In their little earthen home. 



