180 THE POETRY OF FLOWERS 
PREFERENCE. 
APFLE-BLOSSOII. 
What virgin’s cheek 
Can match this apple-bloom ? 
Elliott. 
What is more enchanting to the lover of nature than the 
apple-tree, when clad with its beautiful bloom in the early 
spring? and the more, that they hold forth the promise of an 
abundance of delicious fruit. The apple-bloom is indeed a 
charming flower, and by some is preferred before the rose. 
The idols I have set apart to worship — 
Watched over — cherished — mused upon in absence, 
Until my full heart ached with tenderness! 
f. s. o. 
Before a fair maiden, 
Two offerings shone: 
A blossom dew-laden — 
A sun-coloured stone. 
Alone in her bower, 
And musing on them, 
She weeps o’er the flower, 
She smiles on the gem. 
