COWSLIP. 



The name of Cowslip seems to be derived from tne 

 Saxon word Cuslippe, and was probably given to the 

 flower on account of the resemblance which its perfume 

 has to the breath of a cow, or from its being so closely 

 pressed by the lip of the cow in the pastures, where it is 

 considered an injurious weed. 



The Primrose seeks the partial shade of hedgerows, 

 the banks of sheltered lanes, and the borders of woods 

 and coppices, delighting in concealment ; but the Cowslip 

 advances boldly into the open fields, and decorates the 

 sloping hills with its pendent umbels of fragrant blossoms. 



The corollas of the Cowslip are often gathered to make 

 a kind of liqueur wine, which is thought to promote sleep. 



"Thy little sous 

 Permit to range the pastures; gladly they 

 Will mow the Cowslip posies, faintly sweet, 

 From whence thou artificial wines shalt drain 

 Of icy taste, that, in mid fervours, best 

 Slack craving thirst, and mitigate the day." 



Phillips. 



How cheerful along the gay mead, 

 The Daisy and Cowslip appear! 



(67) 



