It is 4. The Yellow Mountain Violet (V. lutea), much resembling V. tricolor but usually larger. sometimes purple instead of yellow. We possess then in our own district four species: The Sweet Violet (V. odorata). The Hairy Violet (V. hirta). The Wood Violet (V. sylvatica) of both forms. Whether canina is here or not I cannot venture to say until I have seen an authentic specimen. It is said to grow in sandy and peaty places. Of the virtues of the Violets I do not know that there is much to say; but their roots appear generally to possess medicinal properties. One of the ipecacuanhas is the root of a Brazilian violet; in South America most of the family are shrubs. According to old Gerard the study of violets is productive of good moral results, and in his words I will conclude. Speaking of the Sweet Violet he says 66 They have a great prerogative above the other violets, not only because the minde conceiveth a certain pleasure and recreation by smelling and handling these most odoriferous flowers, but also for that very many by these violets receive ornaments and comely grace; for there be made of them garlands for the head, nosegaies, and posies, which are delightful to look upon, and pleasant to smell to, speaking nothing of their appropriate virtues ; yea, gardens themselves receive by these the greatest ornament of all cheerful beautie, and most gallant grace. And the recreation of the mind which is * Viola palustris is recorded in an old Floral Guide to East Kent, as occurring at Sellinge. taken thereby cannot but be very good and honest, for they admonish and stir up a man to do that which is comely and honest; for flowers through their beautie, variety of colour, and exquisite forme, doe bring to a liberal and gentlemanly mind the remembrance of honestie, comelinesse, and all kinds of virtues. For it would be an unseemlie thing for him that doth look upon and handle faire and beautiful things, and who frequenteth and is conversant in faire and beautiful things to have his mind not faire but filthie and deformed." LISTS OF THE PLANTS, BUTTERFLIES, MOTHS, BIRDS, AND LAND AND FRESH WATER SHELLS, TO BE FOUND In the Neighbourhood of Folkestone, within a radius of six miles from the Town Hall. |