144 THE ROSE GARDEN. 



contemporaries, and anticipating the result. Perhaps, on returning to the tents 

 after judgment has been pronounced, our plants are not so high in the scale as we 

 expected to find them. A feeling of disappointment may arise. Shall we take 

 umbrage at it ? No, certainly not. This would be unjust, ungenerous. Let us 

 ask ourselves this question : Which is the more likely, that the Censors — men 

 selected on account of their professional knowledge and known probity — men 

 who have no knowledge of either things or parties, — which, we say, is the more 

 likely, that they should have shewn an indifference to, or prejudice against, our 

 plants, or that we, the owners thereof, have been indulging in an overweening 

 fondness ? The answer is apparent. And let us ask ourselves again, if there is 

 any disgrace in being beaten ? Certainly none. Every place here is honourable. 

 If A produces good plants, it is no discredit to him that B produces better. Nor 

 would it always be correct reasoning to say that the latter is the more skilful 

 cultivator. The air, or the soil, or the means at the disposal of B, may enable 

 him to accomplish with ease that which is impracticable with A. If our plants are 

 good, never mind those of our contemporary being better. Are not both engaged 

 in the same work, both interested in the advancement of a favourite flower? Let 

 us persevere, and we may probably reach the summit of our ambition at some 

 future time. 



In packing for returning the same care is requisite as before, if the plants are 

 intended to be shewn elsewhere, or indeed if any store is set by the flowers yet 

 unfolded. Under other circumstances, the flowers may be cut off, which saves 

 much time in packing and travelling. But if the floAvers are preserved, the 

 plants may serve for other shows, although they must be considered in greater 

 perfection when possessed of expanded flowers and others yet to come, than when 

 shewing expanded flowers only. 



When the flowering is over, the flower-stalks should be cut off, and a second 

 growth will shortly ensue. The Autumnals, which bloomed in May, will flower 

 again in August ; those of June, in September ; and if those of July are placed 

 in a warm green-house they may be kept in flower till Christmas. 



