The fields and garden-borders Are bright because of spring, The clouds of guelder roses Are out and blossoming; And close beside the gateway, Tall, upon either hand, Their green robes shot with sunlight, Like queens, the Lilacs stand.
And one is crowned with purple, And one is crowned with white; Look! where the wind is passing They bow to left and right, And trails of scent they scatter As royal gifts to all, To every creature dwelling Within the garden-wall.
O queen in plumes of purple! Throw me a breath of joy, You are all grand and glorious And I a little boy; But ask the lovely lady With white plumes in her hair To scent my heart with sweetness, To make it pure and fair.
❦