SWALLOW LORE 



In Bohemia in the springtime if one swallow is first seen 

 by a maiden she will be married during the year; if a pair, 

 she will remain single. 



Once upon a time the present to a lady of a gold ring 

 that had lain in a swallow's nest nine days inspired love in 

 her breast for the donor. 



The heart of a swallow worn around the neck was sup- 

 posed to render the wearer attractive; the same amulet was 

 used to strengthen memory. 



In Ireland the peasants believe that there is a certain 

 hair on every one's head, which, if picked off by a swallow, 

 dooms the man to perdition. 



In Norfolk they say that when swallows congregate 

 about churches before departing for the South they are de- 

 ciding who shall die before their return. 



If a swallow flies imder a cow she gives bloody milk and 

 is said to be "swallow struck." She may be cured by sprink- 

 ling her milk on the spot where roads cross. 



An old French legend says that it was the swallow that 

 removed the crown of thorns from the brow of Christ, and 

 that a thorn, piercing her breast, gave it the ruddy dye. 



Pliny tells of the swallow curing blindness in her 

 progeny by the use of the swallow herb, a magic.plant which, 

 if taken from her and carried in the pocket, would insure 

 wealth to the possessor. 



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