The Works of John Hall-Stevenson ... Corrected and Enlarged. With Several Original Poems, Now First Printed, and Explanatory Notes. In Three Volumes |
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| XVII. | FABLE XVII. |
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 | The Works of John Hall-Stevenson |  |
105
FABLE XVII.
A fragrant Rose, in vernal bloom,Close by a pensive Myrtle grew;
A melancholy jealous gloom
Darken'd the Myrtle's native hue.
O happy Rose! Myrtilla cry'd,
Thy sweets unrivall'd yet by art,
Fairest of flowers, she said, and sigh'd,
Thy blushes warm and win the heart.
Whilst all conspire to fan thy pride,
To me, like a neglected maid,
Attending joyless on a bride,
Nought but cold compliments are paid.
The Rose reply'd, Myrtilla cease;
Why will you envy me my day?
Why will you interrupt your peace?
You may please long, if you'll be gay.
The Rose's dower is short-liv'd praise,
Vigour is yours, and length of days.
Chloe, love Admiration less,
Love solid Truth, and Virtue more;
106
No woman ever did before.
Then Chloe, be for ever mine,
A Myrtle true, not one of those
That, like Myrtilla, sigh and pine
For all the lovers of the Rose.
| The Works of John Hall-Stevenson | |