PREFACE 
Flowers are universally acknowledged and ap¬ 
preciated as tlie most graceful and lovely objects 
among the productions of nature, and few preli¬ 
minary remarks are therefore necessary in pre¬ 
senting to the acceptance of the public, a little 
work on a subject so truly delightful and interest¬ 
ing as the Language of Flora. 
Flowers are calculated to raise generous and 
tender emotions in the heart, and to swell the 
bosom with gratitude and praise to the “ Giver of 
every blessing,” for the rich and inexhaustible 
treasures he has thought fit to scatter in such 
profusion around us, to delight our senses by their 
rich tints, delicate forms, and delightful perfumes 
— filling the air with the most delicious fragrance 
throughout the summer months— 
“ When Vtend of one unchanging breeze. 
There Mow a thousand gentle airs, 
And e;»« h a different perfume bears:— 
As jf the loveliest plants and trees 
Had vassal breezes of their own 
To watch and wait on them alone. 
And waft no other breath than theirs.” 
