  I saw a row of hollyhocks, Demure and stately-tall, They peep'd above a hedge of box, Like maidens in brocaded frocks, Who nodded one and all. Some dress'd in pink, and some in white, And some in purple blue, They seemed abrim with gay delight, To beckon shyly, and invite The passer-by to view. A mottled thrush cast bold black eyes Upon this fair array, He swell'd his little throat with sighs, And tender notes of glad surprise He sang in wistful lay. But ne'er a stately head was turned Towards his lonely tree, Altho' with ardent words he burned, Those dainty maids for whom he yearn'd Had only smiles for me. |
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