MOSSES. 49 



delicate and susceptible are they in some cases, as to 

 be influenced by the moisture of the human breath. 

 They may be closely adpressed, or twisted at one 

 instant, so as to conceal the opening of a capsule ; 

 in the next instant they become sensitive to the 

 moisture which falls upon them, gradually untwisting 

 and falling back, like the tentacles of a miniature 

 sea-anemone, and then, as the moisture evaporates, 

 closing up again, as they were before — 



" When Heaven's blithe winds had unfolded them, 

 As mine-lamps enkindle a hidden gem, 

 Shone smiling to Heaven, and every one 

 Shared joy in the light of the gentle sun." 



