WALLFLOWER. 
51 
WALLFLOWER. 
FIDELITY IN MISFORTUNE. 
The Wallflower derives its name from the 
circumstance of its growing upon old walls, and 
being seen on the casements or battlements of 
ancient castles, among the ruins of abbeys, and 
on turrets and cottages. Hence the minstrels 
and troubadours were accustomed to wear a 
bouquet of Wallflowers, as the emblem of an 
affection which is proof against time and mis¬ 
fortune. 
Modern poets have not been backward to 
acknowledge the merits of this beautiful and 
fragrant flower. 
To me it speaks of loveliness, 
That passes not with youth, 
Of beauty which decay can bless, 
Of constancy and truth. 
But, in adversity’s dark hour, 
When glory is gone by, 
