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The Monument

A monster, in a course of vice grown old,
Leaves to his gaping heir his ill-gained gold:
Straight breathes his bust, straight are his virtues shown,
Their date commencing with the sculptured stone.
If on his specious marble we rely,
Pity a worth like his should ever die!
If credit to his real life we give,
Pity a wretch like him should ever live!

Violets

Modestly we violets cower,
Each within a little bower,
Cool and green.
Each contented with the hour,
Welcoming both sun and shower,
In our leafy home unseen.

A Bulb

Misshapen , black, unlovely to the sight,
O mute companion of the murky mole,
You must feel overjoyed to have a white,
Imperious, dainty lily for a soul.