To Miss LAURA GUILFORD

Laura, this little gift approve, Pluck'd by the hand of cordial love! With nicest care the wreath I've dress'd, Fit to adorn your friendly breast. The rose and lilly are combin'd, As emblems of your virtuous mind! Pure as the first is seen in thee Sweet blushing sensibility. Carnations here their charms display, And nature shines in rich array, Od'rous, as virtue's accents sweet, From Laura's lips with wit replete. The myrtle with the laurel bound, And purple amaranthus crown'd, Within this little knot unite, Like Laura's charms, to give delight! Fair, fragrant, soft, like beauty dress'd; So she unrivall'd stands confess'd; While blending still each finish'd grace, Her virtues in her mien we trace; Virtues, which far all tints outshine, And, verdant, brave the frost of time.