Why does not History tell us, who met
First, the sweet breath of the first violet?
Rather I'd know it than facts that are known—
As when some tyrant ascended some throne,
A battle was fought, a comet display'd,
Coals were discover'd, or steam-engines made.
I can no moment recall, ere I knew
Perfume pertain'd to those blossoms of blue;
Had the first knowledge of sweetness like this
Touch'd me to-day, what perfection of bliss!