230 LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS. 


IVY. sie | 



FRIENDSHIP. 
FRIENDSHIP has sometimes chosen for its 
device a fallen tree, firmly embraced by the ver- 
dant arms of the Ivy, with this motto: “ No- 
thing can part us.” In Greece the altar of 
Hymen was encircled with Ivy, and a branch of 
it was presented to the new-married couple, as 
a symbol of the indissoluble knot. It was sacred 
to Bacchus, who is represented crowned with 
Ivy-leaves, as well as those of the vine. It formed 
the crown of the Greek and Roman poets ; and, 
in modern times, woman’s love, constancy, and 
dependence, have been expressed by it. 
Ingratitude has sometimes been represented 
by the Ivy strangling its supporting benefactor. 
This calumny has been repelled by the author 
of the “Studies of Nature,” who regards it as 
the model of pure friendship. “ Nothing,” 
says he, “can separate it from the tree which 
it has once embraced : it clothes it with its own 









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