GEORGE WITHER

Next the Pansy seems to woo him, Then Carnations bow unto him ; Which whilst that enamoured swain From the stalk intends to strain, (As half-fearing to be seen) Prettily her leaves between Peeps the Violet, pale to see That her virtues slighted be; Which so much his liking wins That to seize her he begins.

Yet before he stoop'd so low He his wanton eye did throw On a stem that grew more high, And the Rose did there espy. Who, beside her previous scent, To procure his eyes content Did display her goodly breast, Where he found at full exprest All the good that Nature showers On a thousand other flowers ; Wherewith he affected takes it, His beloved flower he makes it, And without desire of more Walks through all he saw before.

So I wand'ring but erewhile

Through the garden of this Isle,

Saw rich beauties, I confess,

And in number numberless.

Yea, so differing lovely too,

That I had a world to do

Ere I could set up my rest,

Where to choose and choose the best.

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