THE LEGEND OF THE LILY

Once a Tiger for a freak, Fell in love With a Lily, pure and meek And as timid, white, and weak, As a dove. Yet withal a wee bit chilly, Just enough the Tiger’s silly Pride to pique. By-and-by the Lily cold, Felt the charm; Learned, though dreadful to behold, That the Tiger, fierce and bold, Meant no harm. And she smiled upon him shyly, Till at length the Tiger wily, Was consoled. So in time the Beauty grew To adore The Royal Beast who came to woo, Loved him for his golden hue— For his roar; All for him with blushes burning, To a Tiger-lily turning, Golden too. But alas, the luckless Lily, Loved in vain; For a painted daffodilly Came between them, and the Lily, Pale with pain, In a dark pool, drooped and pining, Drowned herself, and rose a shining Water-lily.