' 5 2 T h k ( )tt a w a N atu b a l i ST. 



lion for the nooning by some fern-laced spring; he will climb the mountain ravine 

 where the blood-root and orchis bloom ; or wander, full of speechless yearning, 1>y 

 the ocean shore. Not only do the natural scenes return thus vividly, but the faces of 

 friends who enjoyed the occasion with him, He is once more seated, may be, by a 

 little lake on the mountain, in a garden of alpine flowers. Cool streams flow by 

 him, and he picks the tart fruit of the cowberry. The world lies mapped at his feet, 

 and the infinite heaven is above him. He hears the merry jest and ringing laughter, 

 and his heart becomes gay with the thought of those old-time rambles." 



A collector's outfit, which will answer all ordinary purposes, is cheap 

 and most of it can be got or made at home. It consists of a 

 botanical box or vasculum ; a plant press ; a pocket lens : a trowel ; a 

 sharp pocket knife : and a note-book. The clothing worn in collecting 

 should be strong, as one often has to make his way through a tangle 

 of thorny bushes, and old, so that no nervousness at fear of spoiling it 

 may be excited. For foot-wear, stout shoes are generally recommended, 

 but I prefer the oldest and easiest pair I have. A pair with plenty of 

 holes in them. One has occasionally to wade through a swamp where 

 the water comes above the tops of any ordinary boots, and it is much 

 better that it should run out freely as fast as it enters, than to have to sit 

 down, take off and empty one's shoes,or continue to walk with the water 

 sogging about in them. 



With the vasculum you are all doubtless familiar. Any easily 

 portable box will answer the purpose. Of late years, however, I have 

 entirely abandoned its use, putting my specimens directly into the 

 press, and carrying in my pocket an old newspaper or two, in which, 

 previously dampening it, I loosely wrap up any plant that T wish to make 

 special examination of. 



Plant presses are of various kinds. The one that I commonly use, 

 and which has stood me in good stead from Cape Breton to British 

 Columbia, was given me by our mutual friend Dr. Oeorge Dawson 

 when we were in the North- West together, away back in 1871. Though 

 battered, as you see, it is useful as ever, and that after twenty-five years 

 of honest service. It is made of quarter inch basswood strengthened 

 by four cleats, and is 18 inches long by n^' inches wide. The 

 straps are provided with a cross piece, like a shawl strap, which prevents 

 them becoming separated when the press is open, and also serves for a 



