In many parts of England, the finding of an even Ash-leaf is considered to be an augury of good luck; hence the old saying, so dear to tender maids—
“If you find an even Ash or a four-leaved Clover,
Rest assured you’ll see your true-love ere the day is over.”
In Cornwall, this charm is frequently made use of for invoking good luck:—
“Even Ash I thee do pluck,
Hoping thus to meet good luck.
If no good luck I get from thee,
I shall wish thee on the tree.”
In Henderson’s ‘Northern Folk-lore,’ occur the following lines regarding the virtues of even Ash-leaves:—
“The even Ash-leaf in my left hand,