Classic Poem

CONCERNING THE TWO ROSES

Two glowing roses, fresh from Paradise,
That there, on May-Day morning, leaped in light —
Sweet gift sent by a lover wise and white
With age to two young loves in equal wise:
Whereat, so soft the speech, and to the eyes
So excellent his mien (a savage might
Have softened), the same lustre glimmered bright
In both and on their cheeks burned the swift dyes.
" Never had sun looked on a lovelier two, "
Said he, as with a smile and sigh he spoke,
Pressing their ardent palms and turning away.
Of words and roses each shared like and true.
Even now my worn heart breaks, as once it broke,
With bliss, O happy syllables! Holy day!