THE POETRY OP FLOWERS. 
131 
£ was the lirst to speak—and words there were, 
Wild words, that painted fond affection’s 
course;— 
0 ! what indeed will erring tongues not dare. 
When conquering Feeling prompts! Like 
winds that force 
From wind-harps mystic sounds, the lips declare, 
Thoughts that are often follow’d by remorse ; 
For passion hath a potency that breaks 
Each puny bulwark callous Reason makes ! 
But our’s was Friendship’s purest worship—pure, 
Altho’ that worship bowed at earthly shrines, 
Alas! that hearts on altars insecure 
Should sacrifice their all of bliss! There 
twines 
O’er mankind’s sweetest hopes corruption sure, 
To blast their beauty e'en whilst most .1 
shines!— 
’Tis but to teach us there are worlds above, 
Where Hope fruition finds in endless Love! 
.. 
