The Poetry Corner

Ballad.

By Thomas Hood

It was not in the Winter Our loving lot was cast; It was the Time of Roses, - We plucked them as we passed! That churlish season never frown'd On early lovers yet: - Oh, no - the world was newly crown'd With flowers when first we met! 'Twas twilight, and I bade you go, But still you held me fast; It was the Time of Roses, - We pluck'd them as we pass'd. - What else could peer thy glowing cheek, That tears began to stud? And when I ask'd the like of Love, You snatched a damask bud; And oped it to the dainty core, Still glowing to the last. - It was the Time of Roses, - We plucked them as we pass'd!