FLORAL EMBLEMS. 213 



MIRTH, OR LAUGHTER. 



Saffron Crocus. 



Is represented in floral language by a 

 saff*ron crocus with its petals turned down so 

 as to show the whole of the stamina. 



An old proverb, alluding to one of a merry 

 temper says, 



*' Dormivit in sacco croci/' 

 " He hath slept in a bag of saffron." 



This exhilarating medicinal plant, when 

 taken in large quantities, causes immoderate 

 mirth and involuntary laughter, even to a 

 dangerous degree. 



'* With genial joy to warm the soul, 



Bright Helen mix'd a mirth inspiring bowl." 



Pope. 



