FOR CHILDREN, 33

THE WEDDING AMONG THE
FLOWERS!

Tw grand convocation which Flora enacted,

Where the business of all her domain was transacted,
"Twas hinted, there yet remained one regulation
To perfect her glorious administration.

To some, strength and masculine beauty were given,
Majestical air, and an eye meeting heaven ;
Hidden virtues to many, to others perfume,
‘Through each variation of sweetness and bloom :
*T was therefore suggested, with Flora’s compliance,
To unite every charm in some splendid alliance.
The royal assent to the motion was gained.

*Twas passed at three sittings, and duly ordained.

"Twas now most amusing to traverse the shade,

And hear the remarks that were privately made:

Such whispers, inquiries, and investigations !

Such balancing merits and marshalling stations !

The nobles protested they never would yield

To debase their high sap with the weeds of the
field ;

For, indeed there was nothing so vulgar and rude,

As to let every ill-bred young wildeflower intrude ;

Their daughters should never dishonour their
houses,

By taking such rabble as these for their spouses !

1 This elegant little poem, which was originally published
in the year 1808, in a separate form, is reprinted here by the
kind permission of the accomplished authoress—vow Mss.
Gilbert, of Nottingham.