262 A WHITE-PAPER GARDEN 



domestic occasions seem to demand their 

 assistance, it is permitted to use them only 

 under conditions best suited to them, and 

 hence the elaborate ceremonial attending the 

 placing of a single flower. 



To the sick it is permitted to send a blossom 

 having strong growth, preferably one having 

 a woody stem, such being symbolic of health ; 

 of longevity. 



Flowers to be used on occasions of farewell 

 must be chosen from those bearing blossoms 

 oftener than once a year, thus implying a 

 speedy reunion. 



A costly flower, or one whose possession 

 necessarily indicates wealth, is not desired. 

 A blossom is a thing too sacred to be as- 

 sociated with money, or ostentation, nor may 

 " the foot of pride come near it." 



Only seasonable flowers may be used : those 

 forced at great labour or cost are, in spite of 

 their loveliness, touched by vulgarity, and 

 anything like the use of flowers in masses is 

 distinctly to be avoided. 



If a flower is particularly choice, no other 

 may be displayed in the same apartment. 

 Only inferior sorts may be used together, and 



