286 BRECK’S NEW BOOK OF FLOWERS. 
gether, and the petiole at the same time droops. The 
cause of this motion has been the subject of many curi- 
ous speculations. “The most irritable part of the plant 
is in the foot-stalk, between the stem and the leaflets. 
MIMOSA PUDICA. 
During the night, they remain in the same state as when 
touched in the day-time; yet, if touched then, will fold 
their leaves still closer.” 
“Miller, in one of the earlier editions of his Diction- 
ary, speaks of a Calabrian philosopher, who was driven 
mad by considering the mysterious nature of this plant; 
‘just,’ continues he, ‘as Aristotle is said to have flung 
himself into the sea, because he could not comprehend the 
ebbing and flowing thereof.’ ” 
When any of the upper leaves are touched, if in falling 
er “ 
