The cunning fays! —

From all the brightest and the fairest flowers

They culled by stealth from Flora’s glowing bowers.

And some were thoughtful, and removed the thorns —

Because, perchance,

Some traveler, wandering ere the morning dawns,

Might rashly dance

Thereon with his worn sandals; others planted

Bright flowers instead, at which they were enchanted.

And some were roguish fays—right merry elves,