148 A BOOK ABOUT ROSES. 



CHAPTER IX. 



SELECTION — (contimied). 



Descending now from roseate heights, and 

 ere we reach the perfumed plains below, we must 

 halt to gaze upon our 



Pillar Roses, 



some rising singly here and there, like the proud 

 standards of victorious troops ; some meeting in 

 graceful conjunction, saluting each other like our 

 forefathers and foremothers in the stately min- 

 uet — bowing themselves like tall and supple cava- 

 liers, into arches of courtesy, w4th keystones of 

 cocked hats. In both phases these Pillar Roses are 

 beautiful additions to the Rosarium, enabling us, 

 like the Rose-mounds previously commended, to 

 enliven, with a pleasing diversity, that level which 

 is described as dead. But with reference to the 

 first, I must offer to amateurs a respectful 

 caution — that to grow single specimens in isolated 

 positions, where they will invite, and ought to 

 satisfy, special criticism — knowledge of habit, 

 and experience in pruning, will be indispensable. 



