FLOWERS. 41 
they soon envelope the trunks of the trees in a rich 
and luxuriant mantle. These have mostly large blue, 
white, or crimson flowers, which they bear in great 
abundance. The greatest number of varieties may 
probably be found in South America and the West 
Indies. One or two species grow in the United States, 
and many in Africa and the adjacent islands. 
These flowers are of short continuance, generally 
lasting but one day, opening a little before noon, and 
closing in the evening. 
The name of Passion-Flower was given to it by the 
Spaniards, whose attention was attracted by the beau- 
tiful and showy appearance made by the vines in the 
forests of Mexico and South America; and fancy 
pictured to them in the various parts of the flower a 
resemblance to the crown of thorns, and the other 
signs of our Saviour’s passion. Alluding to this, the 
poet Barton says : — 
‘‘We soar to heaven; and to outlive 
Our life’s contracted span, 
Unto the glorious stars we give 
The names of mortal man. 
Then may not one poor floweret’s bloom 
The holier memory share 
Of Him who, to avert our doom, 
Vouchsafed our sins to bear? 
God dwelleth not in temples reared 
By work of human hands; 
Yet shrines august, by man revered, 
Are found in Christian lands. 
4 * 
