Wifitvt K Sttttririr mLooXftvaU i7 



giant elm, that spread its broad branches 

 in every direction, proclaiming shade and 

 protection for all. 



The old elm was so strong and grace- 

 ful, that it seemed a veritable monarch. 

 Near the barn were two mountain-ashes, 

 that shed their leaves early in the autumn, 

 and as though to make up for this naked- 

 ness, put on a garb of scarlet berries, that 

 made them easily the brightest trees in 

 the neighbourhood. 



The large apple orchard across the 

 road carpeted the grass in the early days 

 of May with its white petals until, under 

 some trees, it looked as though there had 

 been a snow-squall, but the petals of 

 other trees were too pink to suggest 

 snow, and almost bright enough to be rose 

 petals. Blossoming cherry and plum- 

 trees also helped steep the air with 

 sweetness. 



