Page:The Romance of Nature; or, The Flower-Seasons Illustrated.djvu/279

177 And o'er the lakelet's breast there glow'd

A yet intenser blue.

As from the breast of heaven looked out

The few and timid rays

Of the first stars that venture forth

After the Sun-God's blaze.

And our fond Lovers twain must part—

The Ladye Edith sighed—

And whispered—"Here again, my Love,

We meet at even-tide?"—

Sir Rupert smiled—and from the bank

A then gather'd he,

And said—"sweet Ladye of my Love,

Edith—take this, from me."

Now ye who read this tale, perchance,

Than Edith know no more

The language that fair flower would speak,

In Flora's emblem-lore?

Ladyes—take heed how ye refuse,

And Knights—to whom ye bring

That mystic flower—for the next gift

Should be—a plain gold ring.

Now Edith knew its meaning not,

Or had forgotten quite;