110 THE POETRY OF FLOWERS 
I DIE IF NEGLECTED. • 
L AURUSTINUS. 
This is one of the prettiest of evergreen shrubs, and is the 
gift of Spain to our highly-favoured land. In winter it is the 
ornament of our groves, displaying its shining leaves and snowy 
white flowers when other trees have ceased to bloom. 
Neither the hot breath of summer, nor the cold kiss of winter 
can rob it of its charms; but to preserve it we must lend it with 
assiduous care. The symbol of a kind and delicate friendship, 
it ever seeks to please, yet dies if neglected. 
While you cherish me, dearest, “through good and through 
ill,” 
Life’s summer I’ll bless, and its winter defy! 
’Mid sunshine and tempest, I ’ll smile on thee still; 
But oh! if you ever neglect me, I die! 
While you watch o’er Love’s glowing hut delicate flowers, 
Every glance of affection — each soul-winged sigh — 
All the bloom of my cheek and my heart — shall be yours; 
But oil! if you leave me—you leave me to die! 
f. s. o. 
