Tuberose.... Dangerous Love.
Reading edition
The superb Tuberose is a native of the East Indies and South America, and was introduced into Europe in 1632. It has since spread all over the world. The flower is of a white colour, sometimes tinged with a blush of pink. Its perfume is delicious and powerful; but if you would enjoy it without danger, keep at some distance from the plant. If you come with the object of your affection to inhale its perfume by moonlight, when the nightingale is pouring forth its ravishing melody, these odours will add an inexpressible charm to your enjoyment; but, if, regardless of the precepts of moderation, you approach too near, this divine flower will then be but an enchantress who will pour a dangerous poison into your bosom. Thus the love which comes from above purifies and exalts; but that which springs from earth debases and proves the bane of imprudent youth.
Yes, Love is but a dangerous guest For hearts as young as thine, Where youth’s unshadowed joys should rest, Life’s spring-time fancies shine. Then, sweetest, leave the wildering dream, Till Time has nerved thy heart To brook the fitful cloud and gleam, Which must in love have part. Mrs. Osgood.
The Tuberose, with her silvery light, That in the gardens of Malay Is called the mistress of the night, So like a bride, scented and bright, She comes out when the sun’s away. Moore.
If all the world and love were young, And truth in every shepherd’s tongue, These pleasures might my passions move, To live with thee and be thy love. So fading flowers in every field, To winter floods their treasures yield; A honeyed tongue, a heart of gall, Is fancy’s spring, but sorrow’s fall. Sir Walter Raleigh.
Instability and change are written On us and all our works. The loveliest things, When full of promise, oftentimes are smitten; And sweetest roses foster hidden stings. The world, if loved too well, doth ever pall, And the poor fool who set his heart thereon Is doomed to see his hope in ruins fall, Its frail foundation undermined and gone. MacKellar.