‘A grov’ling paltry flow’r, and pale,

‘The jest of ev’ry nipping gale!

‘I am the youthful Poet’s theme,

‘Of me the bard delights to dream;

‘In lofty verse he sings my praise,

‘And paints me in his choicest lays;

‘But you, the early bud of care,

‘Are never seen to flourish there!’

The Primrose heard, with modest ear,

And, ‘Flow’r,’ it said, ‘tho’ sprung so near,