404
Finale.
There are, who, wandering through each trim parterre,
Will spy out fungus-growths, neglecting roses;
So Readers, leaving what are choice and rare,
May take exception to these ancient posies.
We grant, some look like weeds; we scarcely dare
Commend them to your bosoms, or your noses!
What then? In Hortus Siccus plac’d, with care,
They’ll gain historical Metempsychosis.
Will spy out fungus-growths, neglecting roses;
So Readers, leaving what are choice and rare,
May take exception to these ancient posies.
We grant, some look like weeds; we scarcely dare
Commend them to your bosoms, or your noses!
What then? In Hortus Siccus plac’d, with care,
They’ll gain historical Metempsychosis.
J. W. E.
July, 1875.
July, 1875.
