128 THE GLORY OF THE GARDEN 



the timorous elves burrow several feet beneath the 

 roots of the tree they inhabit. 



As a rule, these forest elves are good-natured, and 

 if they are not offended will do men a good turn 

 whenever possible, even teaching them some of the 

 mysteries of Nature, of which they possess the secret. 



In our own country, oaks were always thought to 

 be the favourite abode of elves, and travellers upon 

 approaching groves, that were reputed to be haunted 

 by them, used to think it well to turn their coats 

 for good luck. 



" Would you the Fairy regions see, 

 Hence to the greenwood run with me; 

 From Mortals safe the livelong night, 

 There countless feats the Fays delight." 



There are some plants and trees in whose names 

 we can still trace the influence of the elves. 7he 

 Elm is often known as the " Elven," as the fairies 

 specially delight in this tree. 



It was a pretty fancy, back in the Dark Ages, 

 which pictured to us the fairies, or " little peoples," 

 as being very real inhabitants of the spirit world. 

 For they were said to be the angels who remained 

 neutral when " Michael and his angels fought 

 against the dragon and his angels," and because 

 they remained neutral they were cast by the 

 Almighty out of heaven, and some fell on dry land 

 and some fell into the sea; and these are most gentle 

 and beautiful creatures, who will do no harm if 

 they are left alone, and undisturbed by the presence 

 of mortals. In fact, they would do many kindly 

 deeds for those who thought kindly of them, and of 

 children they took especial care. 



