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POETRY OF FLOWERS. 
THE SHADED FLOWER. 
FRom a dark cloud’s breast a rain-drop fell, 
In a grateful summer shower, 
Through the tangled leaves of a vine-clad dell, 
Till it rested at last on the opening bell 
Of a little shaded flower. 
Then the sun looked forth, and his gladd’ning 
beam, 
Soon drank the shower-dew up; 
He smiled on the mountain, the valley and 
stream, 
But he did not kiss, with his warm, bright gleam, 
The drop in the blossom’s cup. 
*‘ How sad is my fate!’ the floweret sighed, 
- With the glittering weight oppress’d ; 
‘My sisters smile in their graceful pride, 
While I am condemn’d this load to hide 
Within my trembling breast!’ 
| Then she bowed her head on her fragile stem, 
And slept through the long still night ; 
But when she awoke, the prisoned gem 
Shone like a glorious diadem, 
As it flashed in the morning light! 





