University of Virginia Library

TO A FRIEND

Under hedges the violets are coming in bloom
& the Pilewort it shines like the Sun
The Spring it is bursting from the winters cold Tomb
& the sun of Life's smiles has begun
Tis Valentine's Day to morrow fair maid
& the Snowdrops are looking for thee
The Crocus has got his gold suit ready made
& hopes thy companion to be

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So out of two sweethearts be sure & chuse one
While chusing is left to thy choice
For Valentine day only comes to be gone
& then true love will be left without voice
Giles Scroggins
John Clare Feby 13 1854