Classic Poem

LAURA'S GARLAND OF VIRTUES

Laurel, O tree of triumph, proudest crown
Of emperors and poets with thy leaf
Victorious, how much of joy and grief
Have I by dint of thee in one breath known!
Lady, indifferent to the world's renown,
Sweet sovereign of the will, the virtuous sheaf
Thou gatherest, fearing not that subtile thief,
Love and his snares: thy wisdom is thine own.
The pride of blood and worldly treasure-gems,
Of pearl and gold and rubies — these are less
Than dust in thy regard; even the blaze
Of thine own excellence thyself condemns,
But as thy beauty honours holiness,
Enshrining thy chaste soul in perfect praise.