WALLFLOWER. 59 
WALLFLOWER. 
FIDELITY IN MISFORTUNE. 
The Wallflower derives its name from the cir- 
cumstance of its growing upon old walls, and being 
seen on the casements or battlements of ancient 
castles, among the ruins of abbeys, and on turrets, 
and cottages. Hence the minstrels and troubadours 
were accustomed to wear a bouquet of Wallflowers, 
as the emblem of an affection which is proof against 
time and misfortune. 
Modern poets have not been backward to acknow- 
ledge the merits of this beautiful and fragrant 
flower. 
To me it speaks of loveliness, 
That passes not with youth, 
Of beauty which decay can bless, 
Of constancy and truth. 
