IN THE LOWER GARDEN
167
The Gardener
There is no wisdom more to find
If you but know this golden flower!
The Rose
While the pure form I contemplate,
And note the humble drooping pose,
A stirring quickens my estate;
The bud becomes a full-blown rose.
The Gardener
Thou must let fall thy petals too,
And thou shalt be both pure and great;
Thy ruddy splendour, royal hue,
Betokens Life Illuminate!
The Rose
O Thou to whom all hearts are pure,
Thy prescience telleth my desire!
The Gardener
The lily tells you to endure
And pray the Spirit to inspire.
The Rose
This have I done, Lord, from the first,
But this is finite, where we dwell,
For Living Water, Lord, I thirst;
Thou art the Water and the Well!
