20 THE BOUQUET. 



That kindled in the poet's eye, 



And felt she scarce could wish to claim 



Her flowers from such a destiny. 



" Forever must my bower remain 



" Without a Rose to blossom near 



" E'er I can deck it o'er again 



"With treasures gather'd here. 



" No ! let the minstrel's ardent gaze 



*' Beam on their beauties \ong, 



" Though lowly, they have power to raise 



" High thoughts for tuneful song ; 



" And though so perishable, still 



" They may inspire a lay 



" Whose melody the world shall thrill 



" 'Til Time's remotest day ! 



" Then let the priest of Nature keep 



" Her offspring fair — for it is meet 



" Their incense breath should round him float 



" And mingle with the anthems sweet 



" That, from his soul's pure alter rise, 



" Like grateful offerings to the skies !" 



And musing thus the Fairy flew 



From the Bard's dwelling, to renew 



Her fond pursuit. Witli wondering air 



She paus'd beside a mansion fair. 



As palaces in sunny lands 



That stately home was bright 



With the rich treasures wealth commands 



And gems that taste and art delight 



To lavish on their shrine. 



It seem'd that pleasure's thrilling song 



Might ever echo round those walls 



