■ 
JHE j^ASSION fLOWER, 
CTi RT thou a type of beauty, or of power, 
Jr~ Of sweet enjoyment, or disastrous sin ? 
For each thy name denoteth, Passion-Flower! 
O no ! thy pure corolla’s depth within 
We trace a holier symbol; yea, a sign 
'Twixt God and man ; a record of that hour 
When the expiatory Act divine 
Cancelled that curse which was our mortal dower. 
It is the Cross ! never hath Psalmist’s tongue 
Fitlier of hope to human frailty sung 
Than this mute teacher in a floret’s breast— 
A star of guidance the wild woods among; 
A page with more than lettered love imprest; 
A beacon to the haven of the blest. 
Sir Aubrey De Vere. 
