42 FABLES OF FLORA. 
Fair bloomed it while the winds were bland, 
And perfumes from its leaves were fanned; 
But when the north winds round it sighed, 
It shivered, drooped its head, and died. 
4 
Beside it, ’neath the common tread, 
The fragrant Chamomile was spread ; 
Which, trampled on by every foot, 
Took greener hue, and firmer root. 
My heart drew lessons from these flowers: 
When wealth pours down its golden showers, 
’T is easy then to smile, and be 
In heart serene, in spirit free. 
But when oppressed, when crushed by woe, 
O, then how beautiful to grow 
Stronger and brighter ’neath the load,— 
Still loving man and trusting God 1 
