A RURAL SKETCH IN THE SANDWICH ISLAiNDS. 



which adorn the gardens of the wealthy in Europe. I would only allude to a few as an 

 example of the large class of numerous native species worthy of attention. 



How many beauties we have in the single class of orchidacea. In it are the Calypso 

 borealis, Gynmodenia flava. The genus Cypripedium, Oichis, Arethusa, Pogonia, &c. 

 &c. The families Lilicca and Rosacea, &c., afford many more beautiful species. Of the 

 trees, shrubs, &c. my time will not at present permit any extended remarks. The genus 

 Staphylea affords three species, one native of our country, the frijolia, one of the West 

 Indies, one of Europe. Where is there a prettier ornamental shrub than our Staphylea 

 trifoiia? Its beautiful striated stalks, symmetrical shape, and inflated capsules of seeds, 

 vigorous growth, and being uninfested by any insect, all recommend it strongly for cul- 

 tivation in pleasure grounds. Of evergreens we have one which is common, but its capa- 

 bilities are scarcely at all known, or its cultivation would supersede many others which 

 make far inferior appearance. I mean the Jlbies canadensis, commonly called hemlock and 

 Spruce Pine. In its native localities it is a fine tree, but when trimmed in and shaped 

 into such form as it is capable of, [allowed to grow and develop freely on all sides. Ed.] 

 it is one of the most beautiful of evergreens, and of all others, seems to me most worth 

 cultivating; plants of it under four or six years of age, set out in March or April, make a 

 good hedge, and it lives under other trees better than most evergreens, but for trimming in 

 as symmetrical garden trees, or for ornamental single trees, its excellence consists, and plants 

 not over three years old are best; as they are kept trimmed they become very compact, re- 

 sembling the Irish Yew; although handsomer, have been mistaken for it. 



The seeds of this tree are generally eaten by birds or more of them might be found. 

 Their cultivation from seed requires particular management; they germinate well, but great 

 numbers die. Can you oblige us with the result of some of your own experience. 



Very respectfully yours, A. L. Munson, M. D. 



A RURAL SKETCH IN THE SANDWICH ISLANDS. 



BY W. H. .T., PENNSYLVANIA. 



Honolulu — .We let go anchor abreast of the town about 3 P. M., and were imme- 

 diately surrounded by canoes and bum-boats, swarming with natives, who rushing up to 

 us, pulled out what looked like diploma cases made of bambo, and handed us innumerable 

 certificates of being good washermen; some of the papers stated that the bearers were ar- 

 rant rogues, and would steal, cheat, and lie, and the scamps thought we viewed them as 

 most exemplary characters. 



Pu.shing oui" way through the crowd, and nearly deafened by their clamor, we were pad- 

 dled ashore in canoes with outriggers to prevent their capsizing, and strolled through the 

 town. Thje streets were filled with natives, some of them almost in a state of nature, 

 and others, well dressed; the women walked in crowds covered with garments tied about 

 the neck and. hanging to the ground, of cotton or flaring silk, resembling walking rainbows. 



Hundreds of them squatted along the sidewalks on their haunches, which is the com- 

 mon mode of resting, jabbering and staring at the "Ouries" or foreigners. 



Honolulu is a pretty city and the tropical plants hanging over the walls, and trees 

 sheltering the sidewalks, give it a cool and delicious appearance; it having rained this day, 



erything looked fresh and green, the air delightful, and sweet odours filling the 



