THE FLOWERS SPEAK 



E thrill with pleasure when we deck 



The bosom of a bride, 

 Or at a banquet or a fete 



So gracefully preside, 

 But are the happiest when we 



A sick-room beautify, 

 Or to a patient shut-in tell 



Of wind and sun and sky. 



O you with floral wealth endowed 



We earnestly request 

 To share your treasures, rich and rare, 



With others not so blest. 

 The poor and ill who also love 



Our faces fresh and clean, 

 And they with thoughts of gratitude 



Will keep your memory green. 



HEN rosy tints of dawn announce 

 The night is at an end. 

 We open new and fragrant buds 



To greet the garden's friend, — 

 For lo ! from blindly groping roots 

 To tender topmost sprays. 

 We quicken to your faithful love. 

 And live upon your praise. 

 — Minna Irving. 



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