1*2- 193 
Ivy.... Constancy. 
In Greece the altar of Hymen was enwreathed with 
Ivy, and a branch of it was presented to the new-mar¬ 
ried couple, as a symbol of the indissoluble knot. It 
was sacred to Bacchus, who is represented crowned 
with Ivy leaves, as well as those of the vine. It formed 
the crown of the Greek and Roman poets; and, in mo¬ 
dern. times, has been made the poet’s frequent image 
of constancy. The Ivy is attached to the earth by its 
own roots, and derives no nourishment from the sub¬ 
stances to which it clings. The protector of ruins, it 
adorns the dilapidated walls which it holds together; 
it will not accept every kind of support, but its attach¬ 
ment ends only with its life. 
When all things have their trial, you shall find 
Nothing is constant but a virtuous mind. 
Shirley. 
The mountain rill 
Seeks with no surer flow the far, bright sea, 
Than my unchanged affections flow to thee. 
Park Benjamin. 
I am constant as the northern star; 
Of whose true, fixed, and resting quality 
There is no fellow in the firmament. 
Shakspeare. 
13 
