272 GLIMPSES IXTO PLAXT-LIFE 



is not unlike the same process in other seeds and 

 spores we have studied. The result is very simple. 

 A fine, silky, thread-like body (protonema, Gr. 

 protos, first, and iicma, a thread) is developed ; 

 when this has attained a fair size, a little moss 

 plant bef^ins to grow upon its surface exactly as 

 we see a bud grow upon a tree-branch, and it is 

 upon this moss jjlant that the organs of reproduc- 

 tion arc produced. We have now come to the end 

 of our study of seeds. 



An endless source of interest to the student of 

 nature is opened up to view by carefully observing 

 the beginning of all vegetable life, and the seed or 

 spore of the commonest weed or fern will teach us 

 lessons that should ever make us mindful of the 

 wonderful mystery of life and its genesis. 



Objects to collect and examine : — Poppy, silene, 

 and collomia seeds. Examine tigelhim of cyclamen, 

 radish, and carrot. Sow broad beans, mustard, and 

 cress seed. Collect seedling trees. Sow date- 

 stones. Examine fern and moss spores. 



