MINERVA'S PRIZE.
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MINERVA'S PRIZE
Minerva, a visit to Flora once made,
When the flowers, in a body, their compliments paid,
And, charmed with their manners, and elegant dyes,
Desired she might give to the fairest a prize;
Appointing a day, when herself should preside,
And on their pretensions to beauty decide.
Then the Rose bridled up, with a confident air,
As if she would say,—Who with me shall compare?
While the Lily, but newly come out as a bride,
Whisper'd low to her sisters, and laugh'd at such pride.
The Hyacinth studied her wardrobe with care,
Still puzzled to settle what colors to wear;
The Poppy, ashamed of her dull, sleepy eyes,
Wore a new scarlet dress, with a view to the prize.
