3fi FLORA IIISTORICA. 



originally brought from Africa, since he says it 

 anciently bore the name of Tunica, and Herhe 

 tiinique, which seems to indicate that it was a 

 plant from Tunis. 



Shaw considered it a native of Italy when he 

 wrote — 



** In fair Italia's bosom born, 



Dianthus spreads his fringed ray ; 

 And glowing- 'mid the purpled morn, 

 Adds fragrance to the new-born day. 



Oft by some mould'ring time-worn tower. 



Or classic stream, he loves to rove. 

 Where dancing nymphs, and satyrs blithe. 



Once listened to the notes of love. 



Sweet flower, beneath thy natal sky 



No fav'ring smiles thy scents invite ; 

 To Britain's worthier regions fly. 



And paint her meadows with delight*." 



The modern generic name of Dianthus, which 

 has been bestowed upon this fragrant flower, is 

 derived from the two Greek words, Aiog and avbog^ 

 which signifies Jove's flower. 



** Like 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 Jove's flower when Jove was but a cliild. 



Take him with many flowers in one confcrr'd, 



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



CowLKy. 



* The modem Italians hold perfumes in aversion. 



