Thorns Poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward

As we pass by the roses,
Into your finger-tip
Bruise you the thorn.
Quick at the prick you start,
Crying, 'Alas, the smart!
Farewell, my pleasant friend,
Wisely our way we wend
Out of the reach of roses.'


Oh, we pass by the roses!
Where does the red drop drip?
Where is the thorn?
What though 'tis hid and pressed
Piercing into my breast?
Scathless, I stretch my hand;
Strong as their roots I stand,
And dare to trust the roses.