30 FLORA HISTORICA. 



tunique^ which seems to uidicate that it was a plant 

 from Tunis. 



Shaw considered it a native of Italy when he 

 wrote — 



In fair Italia's bosom born, 



Diauthus spreads his fringed ray ; 

 And glowing 'mid the purpled mom, 



Adds fragrance to the new -bom day. 



Oft by some mould' ring time-worn tower, 



Or classic stream, he loves to rove. 

 Where dancing nymphs, and satyrs blithe. 



Once listen'd to the notes of love. 



Sweet flower, beneath thy natal sky 

 No fav'ring smiles thy scents invite ; 



To Briton's worthier regions fly, 



And paint her meadows with deUght*. 



The modern generic name of Dlanthus^ which 

 has been bestowed upon this fragrant flower, is 

 derived from the two Greek words, A<of and avQor, 

 which signifies Jove^s flower. 



I'ike that sweet flower that yields great Jove delight; 

 Had he majestic bulk, he'd now be styled 

 Jove's flower ; and, if my skill is not beguiled, 

 He was Jo%'e's flower when Jove was but a child. 

 Take him with many flowers in one conferr'd, 

 He's worthy Jove, e'en now he has a beard. 



COWLET. 



The French name of OEillet signifies a httle eye, 

 and our name of Pink seems to have been derived 

 from the Dutch name of piwA*, for an eye, and be- 

 stowed upon it on the same account. 



* The modern Italians hold perfumes in aversion. 



