25 JUNE 1887, Page 16

A WILD ROSE.

TEE first wild rose in wayside hedge

This year I wandering see, I pluck, and send it as a pledge, My own Wild Rose, to thee.

For when my gaze first felt thy gaze, We were knee-deep in June; The nights were only dreamier days, And all the hours in tune.

I found thee, like the eglantine, Sweet, simple, and apart, And from that hour thy smile bath been The flower that scents ray heart.

And ever now when Stine cloth grace Fresh copse or weathered bole With roses, straight I see thy face, And gaze into thy soul.

A natural bud of love thou art, Where, bending down, I view, Deep hidden in thy fragrant heart, A drop of heavenly dew.

Go, will rose, to my Wild Rose dear, Bid her come swift and soon.

0, would that She were always here It then were always June.

ALFRED AUSTIN.