From out a wintry sky did sudden gleam
Of sunshine reach a violet where it grew,
That grateful sprang to meet the tender beam,
Unfolding all her leaves of delicate hue,
And shedding perfume in a fragrant stream.
But ere her beauty opened to the view
Descending clouds dispelled such blissful dream,
Nor ever more than that caress she knew.
And thus doth love awake the slumbering heart
To quick response: it opens like a flower
Whilst thousand aspirations yet unknown
Burst into life in one all-tremulous hour.
They shall not die! but higher aims inspire,
And flow in noble deeds, though love hath flown.