I saw a row of hollyhocks,
Demure and stately-tall,
They peep'd above a hedge of box,
Like maidens in brocaded frocks,
Who nodded one and all.

Some dress'd in pink, and some in white,
And some in purple blue,
They seemed abrim with gay delight,
To beckon shyly, and invite
The passer-by to view.

A mottled thrush cast bold black eyes
Upon this fair array,
He swell'd his little throat with sighs,
And tender notes of glad surprise
He sang in wistful lay.

But ne'er a stately head was turned
Towards his lonely tree,
Altho' with ardent words he burned,
Those dainty maids for whom he yearn'd
Had only smiles for me.