MAY. 121 
and thus the generic names of a small number of plants will 
be at once known, and the specific distinctions may be 
learned afterwards. The same will be the case with the 
genus Myosotis ; so that with a common share of patience 
and observation, the study presents only those difficulties 
which an ardent mind loves to conquer. 
This season is not only rich in flowers, but the birds 
enliven our walks by their sweet songs; msects are gay; 
all nature appears rejoicing in the return of warm weather ; 
and we who are blessed with reason must be grateful to the 
God of Nature, who made us capable of appreciating these 
various beauties. In this month every thing wears an 
appearance of freshness, which is exceedingly pleasant to the 
eye, and exhilarating to the spirits after the sombre hues of 
winter ; for the earth, refreshed by frequent showers, and 
not yet scorched by the summer sun, yields abundant vege- 
tation, while every field, lane, and wood is enamelled by the 
many-coloured flowers of spring. 
Our poets, from Chaucer to Wordsworth, have spoken of 
the beauties of this season: its flowers, its birds, and espe- 
cially the Nightingales, awaken their fervour; and all agree 
in ascribing many beauties and pleasures to this month. 
Milton makes it “eternal spring” in Heaven; and Virgil 
