FABLES OF FLORA. 87 
The myrtle is the emblem of love in absence. 
• The Myrtle bough bids lovers live; 
But that Matilda will not give.’ 
Scott. 
It was the custom of Greek warriors to wreathe 
their swords with myrtle. 
‘ O! not beneath the enfeebling, withering glow 
Of such dull luxury, did those Myrtles grow, 
With which she wreathed her sword when she would 
dare 
Immortal deeds.’ Moobe. 
FABLE XXV. 
The Tulip and the Myrtle. 
’T was on the border of a stream 
A gayly painted Tulip stood, 
And, gilded by the morning beam, 
Surveyed her beauties in the flood. 
And, sure, more lovely to behold, 
Might nothing meet the wistful eye; 
That crimson, fading into gold, 
In streams of fairest symmetry. 
