COWSLIP. 
We have given some description of the 
Cowslip (Primula veris), in our account of 
the Primrose (Primula vulgaris), but it is 
entitled to a more extended notice. 
“ The name of Cowslip seems to be derived 
from the Saxon word Cuslippe, and was 
probably given to the flower, on account of 
the resemblance which its perfume has to the 
breath of a cow, or from its being so closely 
pressed by the lip of the cow in the pastures, 
where it is considered an injurious weed. 
“ The Primrose seeks the partial shade of 
hedgerows, the banks of sheltered lanes, and 
the borders of woods and coppices, delighting 
in concealment; hut the Cowslip advances 
boldly into the open fields, and decorates the 
sloping hills with its pendant umbels of 
fragrant blossoms. 
“Although every lover of nature hails with 
pleasure the first appearance of the pale 
Primrose, seated on the hazel bank, sur¬ 
rounded with its puckered leaves, yet it fails 
to give those joyous sensations which arise at 
the first sight of the meadow “ gay with 
gaudy cowslips drest.” The latter flower as 
forcibly brings to mind the frolics of our 
childhood, as the former reminds us of past 
friends and rural walks; for the soft tint of 
the Primrose, like the mild beam of the moon, 
seems to invite us on to moral reflections and 
quiet contemplation.” 
