FLORAL EMBLEMS. 213 



MIRTH, OR LAUGHTER. 



SAFFRON CROCUS. 



Is represented in floral language by a 

 saffron crocus with its petals turned down so 

 as to show the whole of the stamina. 



An old proverb, alluding to one of a merry 

 temper says, 



" Dormivit in sacco croci." 

 " He hath slept in a bag of saffron." 



This exhilarating medicinal plant, when 

 taken in large quantities, causes immoderate 

 mirth and involuntary laughter, even to a 

 dangerous degree. 



" With genial joy to warm the soul, 



Bright Helen mix'd a mirth inspiring bowl." 



Pope. 



