The mouth-kiss, on the contrary, is redolent of the purest and most delicate poesy. A German minnesinger rhapsodises thus: “The radiant sun is darkened before mine eyes when I behold the roses that bloom on my darling’s mouth.” “He who can pluck these roses may rejoice in the depth of his heart. Many are the roses I have beheld, but never have I looked on any so splendid.” “How beauteous are the roses one gathers in the valley; nathless her delicate, ruddy lips conjure up thousands that are lovelier still.” L’ENVOI Wherefore, methinks, let ev’ry man Kiss as he knows best, will, should, can; But I and my beloved know this:-- How we ought properly to kiss.--PAUL FLEMING. W. F. H. Printed by Oliver & Boyd Edinburgh. FOOTNOTES: [1] H. F. Cary’s translation. [2] From _osculum_ we get the words osculogy, the science of kissing, and osculogical, that which pertains to kissing; but the Greek derivations philematology and philematological are perhaps preferable. [3] The tiny little mouth, red as a rose That blossoms hidden in some garden-close, Pleasant and amorous through being kissed. W. F. H. [4] Translated from the Danish Version. [5] A Danish poet, philologist, and collector of proverbs (1631-1702). [6] This and most of the following Servian ballads were translated by Prof. Nyrop into Danish from the German version of O. P. Ritto. [7] From “Various Verses,” 1893. [8] He who a kiss has snatched and takes naught more, Deserves to lose the kiss he has in store, How much was lacking to my perfect bliss? Not modesty but clownishness was this. W. F. H. [9] Translated by Edward, Earl of Derby. [10] William Morris’ Translation. [11] William Morris’ Translation. [12] William Morris’ Translation. [13] William Morris’ Translation. [14] Retranslated from the Danish of the Text. [15] We have here a striking example of how legends arise. John, the Father of the Church, got the epithet “golden-mouth” on account of his great eloquence; but the people sought another more concrete explanation, if I may use the term, of that name, the metaphorical use of which they failed to comprehend. [16] And when he had to kiss Charles’ foot--such kissing Rollo spurned-- He thrust his hand forth downward, and to the monarch turned. He raised the king’s foot to his lips, and overturned the king, Who quickly rose upon his feet whilst mirth around did ring. W. F. H. [17] Which may be freely translated: Dear, kind rod that’s trusty stood, Without thee ne’er should I do good. [18] ... Well, if you chose With less to be content, don’t stick at this. I have for you a face without a nose. W. F. H. [19]