THE LUCK OF FLOWERS
It has been a favorite pastime with maidens in all ages to try to foretell their future by the aid of flowers and plants.
One of the most popular fancies is provided by the four-leaved clover, the story of which is told in various legends. One runs to the effect that three beautiful sisters, Faith, Hope and Charity, came from over the seas, and wherever they walked three-leaved clovers, crimson, white and yellow, bloomed profusely. In their footsteps came another more beautiful being, whose name was Love, and in his honor the clover added a fourth petal to the trefoil.
In time, it became the talisman of love-sick maidens, who wore it in their shoe to ensure a speedy meeting with their sweetheart, wore it over their heart to frighten away evil spirits and to prevent being jilted. In the case of a quarrel, it served to effect a reconciliation.
Apart from its sentimental associations, a four-leaved clover has long been regarded as an emblem of good luck, and has been worn by those who believe in such things when they wished to increase their chances of good fortune.
SPRING FLOWERS.—Naturally, many beliefs flourish around the flowers of the garden and the hedgerow.
If you chance to find the first flower of the season on a Monday, it means good luck.
If on a Tuesday, big undertakings are likely to be successful.
If on a Wednesday, it denotes your approaching wedding.