218 THE POETRY OF FLOWERS 
There is strength 
Deep bedded in our hearts, of which we reck 
BuHittle till the shafts of heaven have pierced 
Its fragile dwelling. Must not earth be rent 
Before her gems are found ? 
Mrs. Hemans. 
Strange heart of man! that even ’mid wo swells high, 
When through the foam he sees his proud bark sweep, 
Flinging out joyous gleams to wave and sky! 
Mrs. Hemans. 
SUSPICION. 
MUSHROOM. \ 
Many species of mushroom are known to be deadly poison. 
The Ostiacs, a Siberian tribe, make a preparation from the 
Agaricus muscarius, which will kill the most robust man in 
twelve hours. Several mushrooms in our country are almost 
as dangerous; as there is a liquid hid within them of a nature 
so acrid, that a single drop put on the tongue will produce a 
blister. The Russians, during their long fasts, live entirely on 
mushrooms; and are often thrown into violent convulsions in 
consequence. We regard them as a dainty dish, but we ought 
to use them with great caution. Before using them they should 
be exposed to the heat of boiling water; this will ascertain 
their quality, as if they are not of a good kind their perfume 
will be evaporated. 
