48 
LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS. 
VIOLET. 
MODESTY. 
Ion, the Greek name of this flower, is traced 
by some etymologists to la, the daughter of 
Midas, who was betrothed to Atys, and changed 
by Diana into a Violet, to hide her from Apollo. 
Tiie beautiful modest flower still retains the 
bashful timidity of the nymph, partially con¬ 
cealing itself amidst foliage from the garish 
gaze of the sun. Hence it has been ingeniously 
given as a device to an amiable and witty lady, 
of a timid and reserved disposition, surrounded 
with the motto —Ilfaut me chercher —I must be 
sought after. 
A woman’s love, deep in the heart, 
Is like the Violet flower, 
That lifts its modest head apart 
In some sequestered bower. 
Anon. 
Unhappy fate of doubtful maid! 
Her tears may fall, her bosom swell; 
But even to the desert shade 
She never must her secret tell. 
W. Smyth. 
