The Poetry Corner

Her Valentine

By James Whitcomb Riley

Somebody's sent a funny little valentine to me. It's a bunch of baby-roses in a vase of filigree, And hovering above them - just as cute as he can be - Is a fairy Cupid tangled in a scarf of poetry. And the prankish little fellow looks so knowing in his glee, With his golden bow and arrow, aiming most unerringly At a pair of hearts so labeled that I may read and see That one is meant for "One Who Loves," and one is meant for me. But I know the lad who sent it! It's as plain as A-B-C! - For the roses they are blushing, and the vase stands awkwardly, And the little god above it - though as cute as he can be - Can not breathe the lightest whisper of his burning love for me.