FLORAL CEREMONIES. 121 



written in reference to the denouncement of a 

 certain crown of flowers used in marriages, as 

 "a device of Satan," and a desire expressed by 

 an over-jealous professor of Christianity, to ex- 

 communicate some young persons for wearing 

 masks, and acting in some private rustic 

 theatricals. 



As the Greeks and Romans were lavish of 

 flowers at their weddings, so do the modern 

 Italians delight to use them on such occasions. 

 Here is a picture of the preparation for a wed- 

 ding at Florence, drawn by a poetic pencil : 



" 1 stopped beneath the walls 



Of San Mark's old cathedral halls. 



I entered, and beneath the roof, 



Ten thousand wax-lights burnt on high, 



And incense from the censors fumed 



As for some great solemnity. 



The white-robed choristers were singing; 



Their cheerful peals the bells were ringing ; 



Their deep-voiced music floated round, 



As the far arches sent forth sound 



The stately organ : and fair bands 



Of younger girls, strewed with lavish hands 



Violets o'er the mosaic floor: 



And sang while scattering the sweet store." 



L. E. L. 



