130 
FLORAL CEREMONIES 
the drowsy hum of the wild-bees meets our cars, 
while the perfume of the thyme and other odor¬ 
iferous plants and flowers steal over the senses 
with a soothing influence, like slumber; we 
dream, yet we are awake ; we behold realities 
as though they were but phantoms—creatures 
of imagination. All is shadowy, indistinct, yet 
full of beauty and intelligence. Lo, you now, 
you happy-looking group of men and women, 
laden with bright-hued blossoms, and verdant 
boughs, piping and singing so merrily as they 
cross the plain. Let us question him who sits 
watching his sheep by the stream, that glides 
so glassly along the foot of the green hill:— 
From whence come all these shepherd swains 
And lovely nymphs attired in green ?” 
Hark, he answers,— 
“ From gathering garlands on the plains 
To crown our fair, the shepherds’ queen.” 
Nearer they come, yet nearer, and now the 
words of their song can be distinguished :— 
“ Bring hither the pinke and purple columbine, 
With gillyflowers • 
