University of Virginia Library

6.

[Downe in a vallye, by a Forestt side]

Downe in a vallye, by a Forestt side,
Neere where the christall Thames roules on her waves,
I saw a Mushrome stand in haughty pride,
As if the Lillyes grew to be his slaves;
The gentle daisye, with her silver crowne,
Worne in the brest of many a shepheards lasse;
The humble violett, that lowly downe
Salutes the gaye Nimphes as they trimly passe:
Those, with a many more, me thoughte complaind
That Nature should those needles things produce,
Which not alone the Sun from others gain'd,
But turne it wholy to their proper vse:
I could not chuse but grieve, that Nature made
So glorious flowers to live in such a shade.