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28 THE POETRY OF FLOWERS 
But fast the scented violets grew, 
And blue rhodora with them stood; 
And then the rose-bay-laurel blew, 
And white viburnum of the wood. 
And now the light, midsummer air 
Breathes of the swamp-pink and sweet-fern* 
The lily-bells have withered there — 
I know my love will soon return! 
Fast fades the long-lived meadow-sweet, 
I joy to see it pass away, 
But when I with my true love meet, 
Long — long may autumn roses stay! 
Miller. 
ARTS (THE). 
ACANTHUS. 
The Acanthus is found in hot countries along the shores of 
great rivers. 
“ Le nil du vert acanthe admire le feuillage.” 
The ancients tastefully adorned their furniture, vases, and most 
costly attire, with its elegant leaves. And Virgil writes, that 
the robe of Helen was bordered with a wreath of acanthus in 
relief. 
This beautiful model of the arts has become their emblem ; 
and he will be talented indeed, who shall produce anything to 
excel its richness. If any obstacle resists the growth of the 
acanthus, it seems to struggle to overcome it and to vegetate 
with renewed vigour. So genius, when acted upon by resist- 
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