A basket of beautiful roses!
Snowflakes in a setting of green; Pure as the pearl that reposes
On breast of the daintiest queen. Not one, but a wealth of sweet roses!
In vases, on table and chair, Small hands, in haste have deposed them;—
Sweet incense in soft summer air.

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Long faded, Oh friend! are the roses;
Long faded, and fallen away; But the fragrance such bounty discloses
Doth perfume the wintriest day. Fragrant as breath of thy roses
Thy life-deeds are wafted above;— Short season of struggle and triumph!
Bright crown of ne'er withering love.