What The Flowers Said

Here are roses, red and white, Each to speak what I would write; For, when in your quiet room You may smell their sweet perfume, I shall whisper through these flowers Fancy’s thoughts for evening hours. Then, when in the crowded street You and I may chance to meet, I’ll discover in your eyes What you’ve half expressed in sighs; For if in your dusky hair One red rose you deign to wear I shall say, “I know that she Wears it for her love of me.” But if on your gentle breast One white rose may dare to rest, Then in rapture I’ll declare, “That’s my heart a-resting there.” But if neither red nor white May your hair or gown bedight, Still with confidence I’ll say, “That is lovely woman’s way-- What of life is largest part Hides she deepest in her heart!”