The Folk-lore of Plants

In the Midland counties there is a proverbial saying that "if there are no kegs or seeds in the ash trees, there will be no king within the twelvemonth," the ash never being wholly destitute of kegs. Another proverb refers to the use of ash-wood for burning:-- "Burn ash-wood green, 'Tis a fire for a queen, Burn ash-wood dear, 'Twill make a man swear;" The meaning being that the ash when green burns well, but when dry or withered just the reverse. A form of well-wishing formerly current in Yorkshire was thus:-- "May your footfall be by the root of an ash," In allusion, it has been suggested, to the fact that the ash is a capital tree for draining the soil in its vicinity. But leaving trees, an immense number of proverbs are associated with corn, many of which are very varied. Thus, of those who contrive to get a good return for their meagre work or money, it is said:-- "You have made a long harvest for a little corn," With which may be compared the phrase:-- "You give me coloquintida (colocynth) for Herb-John." Those who reap advantage from another man's labour are said to "put their sickle into another man's corn," and the various surroundings of royalty, however insignificant they may be, are generally better, says the proverb, than the best thing of the subjects:-- "The king's chaff is better than other people's corn." Among the proverbs relating to grass may be mentioned the popular one, "He does not let the grass grow under his feet;" another old version of which is, "No grass grows on his heel." Another well-known adage reminds us that:--