o 
Preface. 
j^IIE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS has probably called 
forth as many treatises in explanation of its few and 
simple rules as has any other mode of communicating ideas; 
but I flatter myself that this book will be found to be the 
most complete work on the subject ever published—at least, 
in this country. I have thoroughly sifted, condensed, and 
augmented the productions of my many predecessors, and 
have endeavoured to render the present volume in every re¬ 
spect worthy the attention of the countless votaries which 
this “ science of sweet things ” attracts ; and, although I dare 
not boast that I have exhausted the subject, I may certainly 
affirm that followers will find little left to glean in the paths 
that I have traversed. As I have made use of the numerous 
anecdotes, legends, and poetical allusions herein contained, so 
