170 THE POETRY OF FLOWERS 
garet plucks a starlike flower to divine the real sentiments of 
her lover. They are called, “ The Decision of the Flower.” 
And with scarlet poppies around like a bower, 
The maiden found her mystic flower; 
“Now, gentle flower, I pray thee tell 
If my lover loves me, and loves me well; 
So may the fall of the morning dew 
Keep the sun from fading thy tender blue. 
Now I number the leaves for my lot — 
He loves not—he loves me — he loves me not — 
He loves me —yes, thou last leaf, yes — 
I ’ll pluck thee not, for that last sweet guess ! 
He loves me!” —“Yes,” a dear voice sighed, 
And her lover stands by Margaret’s side. 
PARENTAL LOVE. 
CINQUEFOIL. 
In rainy weather, the leaves of this plant incline themselves 
over its flowers, forming a kind of canopy, or parapluie. It is 
gratifying to see a tender mother watching with anxious care 
the unfolding of a beloved daughter’s mind and character. 
When love rejects and friends forsake, 
A parent, though his heart may break, 
From that fond heart will never tear 
The child, whose last retreat is there. 
Ellen Fitzarthur. 
