DROPS PROM FLORA’S CTTP. 33 
THE COWSLIP. 
This flower probably derived its name from the similitude between Its 
perfume and the breath of the cow. It is a beautiful white and yellow 
flower and grows luxuriantly in the open fields. 
ANON. 
Unfolding to tlie breeze of May, 
The cowslip greets the vernal ray; 
The topaz and the ruby gem 
Her blossom’s simple diadem; 
And as the dewdrops gently fall, 
They tip with pearls her coronal. 
SIIAKSrEARE. 
The cowslip’s tall her pensioners be; 
In their gold coats spots you see ; 
Those be rubies, fairy favors; 
In those freckles live their savors. 
I must go and seek some dewdrops here, 
And hang a pearl in every cowslip’s ear, 
I pray thee give it me. 
I know a bank whereon the wild thyme blows, 
Where ox-lips and the nodding violet grows. 
‘ It is the same! it is the very scent — 
That bland, yet luscious meadow-breathing sweet.' 
