For it plans from the first—this is love’s true test—
To give forth its riches to young and to old.
It o’er reaches men high with its shining crest,
Yet never in climbing unduly bold—
’Tis the flower that looms and turns to pure gold,
Yes, the flower that loves, and is loved, the best.
The Gold Finches arrive as its petals unfold,
And the Cardinal’s joy is manifest,
As groom gives to bride the jolly behest
To feast on its wealth and in her heart to hold