Scandinavia the rose was considered 

 a mystic flower, under the particular 

 protection of dwarfs and elves, who 

 in turn were ruled by the Lord of the 

 Rose Garden, King Laurin. Four 

 golden gates led to this magical gar- 

 den, and when they were closed woe 

 to him who should enter there. If 

 any one should dare to pluck a rose, 

 both a hand and a foot were forfeit, 

 for "Thus Laurin, King of Dwarfs, 

 rules within his land." In Germany, 

 as well as in Italy and France, it is 

 whispered that if a maid is desirous 

 of having rosy cheeks she must plant 

 a drop of blood beneath a rose-bush. 



One of the prettiest ceremonies con- 

 nected with the rose was the " Tribute 

 of Roses " which was held in France. 

 In early days the Parliament, placed 

 between the Church and royalty, 

 formed one of the great powers of the 

 State. It was not always in Paris, but 



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