As creeping ivy clings to wood or stone, And hides the ruin that it feeds upon.

The rugged trees are mingling Their flowery sprays in love; The ivy climbs the laurel To clasp the boughs above.

Where round some mould'ring tow'r pale ivy creeps, And low-brow'd rocks hang nodding o'er the deeps.

Wall must get the weather stain Before they grow the ivy.

For ivy climbs the crumbling hall To decorate decay.

Bring, bring the madding Bay, the drunken wine; The creeping, dirty, courtly Ivy join.