116 FLORAL CEREMONIES. 



The tufted rush that bears a silken crown, 



The floating feathers of the thistle's down, 



In tender hues of rainbow lustre dyed, 



The airy texture of her robe supplied; 



And wild convolvnli, yet half unblown, 



Formed, with their wreathing buds, her simple zone ; 



Some wandering tresses of her radiant hair 



Luxuriant floated on the enamored air; 



The rest were by the scandix points confined, 



And graced, a shining knot, her head behind 



While, as a sceptre of supreme command, 



She waved the enthoxanthum in her hand." 



CHARLOTTE SMITH. 



We wish that our space permitted us to quote 

 the description of the attendants of the beautiful 

 Goddess of Flowers from the same poem, and 

 the exquisite forms of perfumed loveliness 

 which the earth and the waters put forth to 

 welcome her approach, but the poet of Lusitania 

 is waiting to tell us how, 



" Zephyr and Flora emulous conspire 



To breathe their graces o'er the field's attire ; 

 The one gives healthful freshness, one the hue, 

 Fairer than e'er creative pencil drew. 

 Pale as the lovesick hopeless maid they dye 

 The modest violet; from the curious eye 

 The modest violet turns her gentle head, 

 And by the thorn weeps o'er her lowly bed; 



