BUD-BREAK 57 



though firs are still more hardy ; while of the tree's 

 growth it is amazing, and in the South of England 

 a larch, happily situated, will often attain a height of 

 five-and-twenty feet in ten years. 



From this day of soft wind and busy bud, one 

 may look forward and paint the boughs and branches 

 with their full glory. There will come a magical hour 

 presently when the last leaf has rippled into its place, 

 and the song of the wood is complete, when the 

 million leaves clap their little hands, and Summer 

 is at the door. 



