14 TIME AND THE FLOWERS. 
In vain did Beauty him entreat 
To spare the flowers, as on the ground 
She weeping knelt, and clasped his feet: 
He only turned his head half round, 
And sternly bade her go her way. 
Said Time, “Were all the world to plead, 
They should not live another day ; 
No, not if Death did intercede ! ”•— 
He took his scythe, and at one sweep 
The flowers became a withered heap. 
Time came again, and so did Spring, 
The spot once more with flowers was strown, 
He scarce could see a ruined thing. 
So tall and thick the buds had grown. 
“ Oh, oh ! ” said Time, “ I must upturn, 
Dig deep, and cover in like Death; 
I’ll not leave one behind to mourn, 
Or sweeten more the breeze’s breath ; 
Full fathom five I’ll lay them low, 
Then leave them if they can to grow ! ” 
