AUGUST. 279 



various and unusual plants spring up. So I 

 have observed in Sherwood Forest that where 

 turf is pared,, henbane is almost sure to exhibit 

 itself, though none has been seen in the neigh- 

 bourhood for years. Many instances of this 

 kind have no doubt attracted the attention of 

 all curious lovers of nature. 



Brooks and watery dykes now display a 

 luxuriance of flowers and verdure. The heat 

 which withered all else has cherished them, 

 having a constant supply of moisture. Water- 

 flags, bulrushes, and reeds, have attained their 

 full growth ; the arrowhead grows in large 

 masses elegantly interspersed with its delicate 

 flowers. The white and yellow water-lilies 

 still flourish, as do those richly blossoming 

 plants, the crimson loosestrife and flowering 

 rush. Willows are still rich in foliage, and to 

 those who love to take a book into some plea- 

 sant sylvan nook, it is very charming to stroll 

 during the warmth of the day amongst the 

 willow-holts on the banks of rivers. The 

 ground is dry, you may lounge at your ease. 

 There is a grateful freshness in the wilderness 

 of green boughs and leaves that surround you ; 

 no tree, saith the venerable Evelyn, affordeth 



