294 LINAGE-^ • [part ii. 



and the Cistiis in its persistent calyx, and the 

 disposition of its sepals. These links, which 

 connect one order \Yith another, and make them 

 appear alike but not the same, form, I think, 

 one of the most interesting parts of the Natural 

 System. We are led on from one gradation to 

 another, by scarcely perceptible shades of dif- 

 ference through the vegetable kingdom; and, 

 indeed, through the whole system of creation: 

 the beautiful harmony, and unity of design, 

 visible throughout, bearing the strong impress 

 of the Divinity whose power has made the 

 whole. 



The common Flax {Linum usitatisshmim), 

 thougli in its appearance only an insignificant 

 weed, is a plant of great benefit to man. The 

 fibres of the stem are used to make linen, and 

 the seeds (linseed) are crushed for oil. The 

 flowers are blue, and have five regularly-shaped 

 petals, which are twisted in the bud ; and a 

 distinct calyx of five pointed sepals, two of which 

 grow from a little below the others, as in- the 

 Gum Cistus ; and, as in that plant, the calyx 

 remains on till the seeds are ripe. There are 

 five stamens, the filaments of which grow toge- 

 ther slightly at the base, and there are five little 

 points like filaments without anthers, rising 

 between the stamens. The petals are connected 

 with the ring formed by the united filaments, 



