Classic Poem

I

THE CLIMBING ROSE

Flower of the rose-tree, bud of the rose,
Heart of the rose where the dewdrop hides,
Speak to my love, ere her eyelids close —
Tell her my love like the rose-tree grows,
Climbs to her window and there abides.
Breath of the rose-tree, scent of the rose,
Soul of the rose by the sun caressed —
Steal to her, breathe to her — soft disclose
Dreams of my heart that would find repose
Deep in her bosom whereon you rest.

II

THE MEADOW ROSE

Dainty petals of rose,
Flushed to your fragrant tips,
My love with your perfume goes
To her hair, her eyes, her lips.

Rose of the swaying brier
Held in her rosy hands,
Whisper my heart's desire
Till my dear love understands.

June, and the song of birds —
Roses faint on the lea —
And oh, the joy of the words
My dear love answers me!

III

THE BRIDE ROSE

White rose of bridal, dainty as my dear,
Pure as her thoughts, and as her body tender,
When she shall clasp you, when she holds you near,
Whisper my love that there is naught of fear,
Naught of regret, in love's complete surrender.

White is her heart's dear haven, and thou, sweet rose,
Resting so near, so white, shall be its warder.
Close thou the way to all that could affright —
Open the door to love alone this night —
And unto me, for love and I will guard her!