Classic Poem

Since flowers—in nosegays—tender meanings veil,
 Since love is hinted by the blushing rose ,
 “Forget-me-nots” by name their drift disclose,
The laurel fame implies, the cypress bale;
Since, whensoe'er all other tokens fail,
 In different colours secret thoughts repose;
 Since yellow jealous pride and envy shews,
And in green sprays “hope tells a flattering tale”;
So might I—to express devotion true—
Cull flowers of every kind and every hue,
 And send to thee the unassorted wreath;
For thou my joys, my hopes, my griefs may'st claim,
My love, my truth, my jealousy, my fame;
 To thee I dedicate my life and death.