CLXXII

_THE NOBLE NATURE_

It is not growing like a tree

In bulk, doth make man better be;

Or standing long an oak three hundred year,

To fall a log at last, dry, bald, and sere;

A lily of a day

Is fairer far in May,

Although it fall and die that night--

It was the plant and flower of Light.

In small proportions we just beauty see;

And in short measures life may perfect be.

_B. Jonson_

The Children's Garland from the Best Poets · 第 183 / 191 题