A SINGLE ROSE III

A single rose means just as much,
And maybe even more,
To one who loves your tender touch
As it 'twere twenty-four.

A single rose conveys your love,
And draws a happy tear,
As if you gave the stars above--
Each day of every year.

A single rose in her gentle hand,
Its petals soft as down;
Its fragrance makes her eyelids drop
As if bestowed a crown.

A single rose is all alone,
As you might be one day;
Don't forget that single rose,
Lest Time--shall slip away.

Now take her hand with gentle care,
Awake or in repose,
And place the precious symbol there,
Your love--a single rose.