Page:The Muse in Arms, Osborn (ed), 1917.djvu/209

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IN THE LOWER GARDEN
167

The Gardener

There is no wisdom more to find
If you but know this golden flower!


The Rose

While the pure form I contemplate,
And note the humble drooping pose,
A stirring quickens my estate;
The bud becomes a full-blown rose.


The Gardener

Thou must let fall thy petals too,
And thou shalt be both pure and great;
Thy ruddy splendour, royal hue,
Betokens Life Illuminate!


The Rose

O Thou to whom all hearts are pure,
Thy prescience telleth my desire!


The Gardener

The lily tells you to endure
And pray the Spirit to inspire.


The Rose

This have I done, Lord, from the first,
But this is finite, where we dwell,
For Living Water, Lord, I thirst;
Thou art the Water and the Well!