206 



FLORA'S LEXICON. 



HYME. Thymus. Class 14, Didynamia. 

 Order : Gymnospermia. The active quali- 

 ties of this plant are duly appreciated by 

 epicures, since it excites and rouses their 

 appetites, by rendering every dish savoury 

 in which it is used. We are told, that the 

 highest flavoured venison is always found 

 where this penetrating herb abounds. Bees seek it with great 

 activity : the honey of Athens was esteemed the best in the 

 world, on account of the thyme which grew on the hills which 

 surrounded that city. 



With shepherds on the thyming downs, 

 I love to pass the summer's day. 



Williams. 



ACTIVITY. 



O'er fringed heaths, wide lawns, and mountain steeps, 

 With silent step the artful Thyma creeps, 

 Unfolds with fragrant bloom her purple flowers, 

 And leads with frolic hand the circling hours. 



ROWDEN. 



Wise men ne'er sit and wail their loss, 

 But cheerly seek how to redress their harm. 



Shakspeare. 



Take the instant way; 

 For honour travels in a strait so narrow, 

 Where one but goes abreast : keep then the path : 

 For emulation hath a thousand sons, 

 That one by one pursue : if you give way, 

 Or edge aside from the direct forthright, 

 Like to an enter'd tide, they all rush by, 

 And leave you hindmost. 



Shakspeare. 



