THE NYMPH must lose her female friend, If more admired than she; But where will fierce contention end, If Flowers can disagree? Within the garden’s peaceful scene 5 Appeared two lovely foes, Aspiring to the rank of Queen— The Lily and the Rose. The Rose soon reddened into rage; And, swelling with disdain, 10 Appealed to many a Poet’s Page, To prove her right to reign. The Lily’s height bespoke command; A fair imperial flower, She seemed designed for Flora’s hand, 15 The sceptre of her power! This civil bick’ring and debate The Goddess chanced to hear; And flew to save, ere yet too late, The pride of the parterre! 20 ‘Yours is,’ she said, ‘the noblest hue; And yours, the statelier mien; And, till a third surpasses you, Let each be deemed a Queen!’ Thus soothed and reconciled, each seeks 25 The fairest British Fair; The seat of empire is her cheeks, They reign united there. Our Score Click to rate this post! [Total: 0 Average: 0]
