`` Why , indeed ? '' said a Butterfly , who was fluttering about after a sunbeam . `` Why , indeed ? '' whispered a Daisy to his neighbour , in a soft , low voice . `` He is weeping for a red rose , '' said the Nightingale . `` For a red rose ? '' they cried ; `` how very ridiculous ! '' and the little Lizard , who was something of a cynic , laughed outright . But the Nightingale understood the secret of the Student 's sorrow , and she sat silent in the oak-tree , and thought about the mystery of Love . Suddenly she spread her brown wings for flight , and soared into the air . She passed through the grove like a shadow , and like a shadow she sailed across the garden . In the centre of the grass-plot was standing a beautiful Rose-tree , and when she saw it she flew over to it , and lit upon a spray . `` Give me a red rose , '' she cried , `` and I will sing you my sweetest song . '' But the Tree shook its head . `` My roses are white , '' it answered ; `` as white as the foam of the sea , and whiter than the snow upon the mountain . But go to my brother who grows round the old sun-dial , and perhaps he will give you what you want . '' So the Nightingale flew over to the Rose-tree that was growing round the old sun-dial . `` Give me a red rose , '' she cried , `` and I will sing you my sweetest song . '' But the Tree shook its head . `` My roses are yellow , '' it answered ; `` as yellow as the hair of the mermaiden who sits upon an amber throne , and yellower than the daffodil that blooms in the meadow before the mower comes with his scythe .
But go to my brother who grows beneath the XXXXX 's window , and perhaps he will give you what you want . ''
Daisy Lizard Nightingale Rose-tree Student centre mermaiden mower scythe sunbeam