SUMMER MEETING. 97 



severely through the cold spells since then; and now to crown all, in 

 our section the ground has been d,ry as in midsummer for a fortnig^it, 

 and no good prospects for rain to relieve us. 



It is pleasing to note that with the increasing tendency among the 

 masses to own their own homes, there is also a proportionate advance 

 in the taste and time employed in the embellishing of these homes with 

 flowers. Every one should have a little spot devoted to the cultiva- 

 tion of flowers. Their care will be a pastime and consequent source of 

 pleasure. 



We would recommend with regard to your prize offered for flowers 

 that the money be divided into two parts, one-half for plants and one- 

 half for cut flowers, and definite prizes offered for definite items. For 

 instance, we could offer : 



For best display of cut flowers shown In vases— 



1st prem. $5, 2n(l prem. $2.50. 

 For best display of pot plants— 



1st prem $.=>, 2nd prem $2.50. 



To the best of my knowledge, nothing has been referred to this 

 committee for action. Eespectfully, 



E. H. Michel, Chairman. 



Summer Flowering Bulbs. 



By Mis8 Lizzie Espenlaub, Rosedale, Kas. 



On finding my name on our program to respond to the subject 

 under consideration, I really wondered what I should say, and when I 

 have finished our friends will wonder what I have said. 



It will hardly i)e expected at this time, when there are so many able 

 publications and books, treating the subject by some of the most 

 learned men and women of this age, who have devoted a great deal of 

 time, even as some of those present have done, that anything new or 

 original can be produced by one who knows so little of flower culture. 

 What, therefore, can be expected, can hardly be more than thoughts 

 and views of others commingled with some things we have observed in 

 our flower gardens. 



The cultivation of the beautiful should be the desire of everyone. 



One poet has said of flowers : 



You are prophets sent to a heedless world. 



The skeptic heart to teach. 

 And 'tis well to read your souls aright, 



And mark the creed you teach. 

 I could never pass you heedless by. 



For mine is the old belief. 

 That midst your sweets and midst j'our bloom. 



There's a soul in every leaf . 

 H— 7 



