MEZEREON. — NARCISSUS. 165 



THE MEZEREON. 



In floral language, this early flowering shrub is made 

 to express a desire to please, whilst others make it ono 

 of the emblems of coquetry, comparing it to a nymph, 

 who in the midst of winter seeks admiration in her sum- 

 mer robes. 



Leave such to trifle with more grace and ease, 

 Whom folly pleases, and whose follies please. 



POPE. 



Mezereon too, 

 Though leafless, well attired, and thick beset 

 With blushing wreaths, investing every spray. 



COWPER. 



THE NARCISSUS. 



' From Ovid's beautiful metamorphosis of the lovely and 

 coy Narcissus into this flower it has become the emblem 

 of Egotism and Self-Love. 



Narcissus on the grassy verdure lies : 

 But whilst within the crystal fount he tries 

 To quench his heat, he feels new heats arise. 



