INTRODUCTION. < 
tie study. Some flowers almost bear written 
upon their upturned faces the thoughts of which 
they are living representatives. That the 
“white investments” of the childlike Daisy 
should, as Shakspeare says, “ figure innocence,” 
is self-evident; that all nations should select 
the glowing Rose as an emblem of love could 
not be wondered at; whilst the little blue petals 
of the Mysotis palustris require no augur to ex¬ 
plain their common name of Forget-me-not. 
Who can doubt that the rich perfumes of some 
plants, or the sparkling lustres of others, must 
be deemed typical of joy and gladness; or that 
the melancholy hue and sombre looks of others 
symbolize sadness and despair? 
Simple as is the language of those bright 
earth stars, “ the alphabet of the angels,” a 
great deal of skill may be expended in forming 
them into sentences, and much ingenuity may 
be exercised in explaining fully and satisfac¬ 
torily the sentiments intended to be expressed 
towards the recipient of the floral message. 
Many who use this fascinating styld of corre¬ 
spondence frequently agree to adopt certain se¬ 
cret and original significations known only to 
themselves ; and, if a little dexterity is shown, 
they not only give variety to, but also render 
their charming telegraphy perfectly unintelligb 
ble to the uninitiated. 
Every student of this gentle art may intro- 
