Page:Floras Lexicon-1840.djvu/29



LMOND. . Class 12,. Order:, Fable confers an affecting origin on this tree. It relates that, son of Theseus and Ph&aelig;dra, in returning from the siege of Troy, was thrown by a storm on the shores of Thrace, where then reigned the beautiful Phyllis. The young queen graciously received the prince, fell in love with him, and became his wife. When recalled to Athens by his father’s death, Demophoon promised to return in a month, and fixed the day. The affectionate Phyllis counted the hours of his absence, and at last the appointed day arrived. Nine times she repaired to the shore; but, losing all hope of his return, she dropped down dead with grief, and was turned into an Almond-tree. Three months afterwards, Demophoon returned. Overwhelmed with sorrow, he offered a sacrifice at the sea-side, to appease the manes of his bride. She seemed to sympathize with his repentance: for the Almond-tree, into which she had been transformed, instantly put forth its flowers, and proved by this last effort that true love, “strong as death,” is incapable of change.

According to Moore, the Almond blossom is the emblem of hope—

In ancient times, the abundance of blossom on this tree was considered as the promise of a fruitful season.