102 SYLVA FLORIFERA. 



the crown of thorns ; the column in the centre 

 of the flower, a miniature of that, which served 

 in the flagellation ; the three clavate stigmas, 

 the three nails used in the crucifixion. 



To such a height was this ridiculous fantasy 

 carried, that figures of the flowers were manu- 

 factured for devotional purposes, instead of 

 the presumptive symbol ; and so well did the 

 makers of these religious flowers understand 

 their trade of deceit, that they substituted 

 iron nails for the stigmas, and a wreath of 

 real thorns for the thready rays of the flower. 

 But let us not from this anecdote judge too 

 severely of the religious superstition of all 

 the Italians; lest they should retaliate by 

 representing us all as being sectaries of 

 Johanna Southcott. 



" Beneath the covert of o'er-arching trees,. 

 Bright Muruccia woos the cooling breeze. 

 The passing Indian turns the admiring eye, 

 Smit by the glories of her crimson dye, 

 And stops in pleased attention to survey 

 Her vivid leaves and variegated ray. 

 But loftier thoughts the rising mind inspire, 

 When warm devotion lends her holy fire. 

 Haply amid the convent's virgin train, 

 Bosom'd in shades beyond the western main, 

 At rosy morn, or evening's silent hour, 

 Some fair Enthusiast views the sainted flower, 

 When lo ! to rapt imagination's eye, 

 Springs the sad scene of darken'd Calvary ! 



