
SICKNESS. 253 
leaves, which it rolls into the shape of a horn; 
it finds its sustenance in the nectareous vessels 
of its red flowers, which are similar to those of . 
the fox-glove : and its little body, when resting 
on the jasmine flower, appears like an emerald 
set in coral. It is sometimes so tame or fear- 
less that it may be taken with the hand. This 
little being is the soul and the life of the plant 
that cherishes it. Separated from its aérial 
guest, this beautiful twining plant becomes as 
a desolate widow who has lost all her charms. 
SICKNESS. 
FIELD ANEMONE. 
In some countries it is believed that the 
flower of the field-anemone possesses qualities 
so pernicious as to infect the air; and that those 
who inspire its exhalations are subject to the 
most frightful maladies. In olden times the 
magicians, attributing extraordinary medical 
properties to this plant, ordered every person to 
gather the first anemone he saw in the year, 
repeating at the time, ‘‘ I gather thee for a 
remedy against disease.” It was then carefully 
preserved, and if the gatherer became indisposed 
it was tied round his neck or arm, 
























































