124 



THE BIRD-CHERRY. 



nobilis, the name of Bay. Laurel leaves abound in prussic 

 acid, and the water distilled from them is a most virulent 

 poison. The custom of using them to flavour custards, 

 puddings, &c., should therefore be strongly deprecated. 

 Insects, the appearance of which is liable to be injured by 

 immersion in spirits of wine, may readily be killed by 

 being shut into a closed box with bruised leaves, the aroma 

 from which speedily takes effect. 



Cerasus Lusitdnica, or Portugal Laurel) is a native of 

 the country from which it derives its name. It is not of 

 rapid growth, but is a valuable acquisition to the shrub- 

 bery, from its elegance of form and hardy nature, resisting 

 the severest frost, before which the Laurel and Laurustinus 

 shrink and perish. 



PORTUGAL LAUREL. 



