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of all times and of all countries where it flourishes. It is 

 the floral badge of England, as the Thistle is of Scotland, 

 and the Shamrock of Ireland. In its cultivated state 

 it embellishes the bower of the palace, and the walls of the 

 peasant's lowly cot ; and is emblematic alike of love, anger, 

 joy, and grief. Sparsely mingled with the Wild Rose are 

 found the white blossoms of the Common Guelder Rose 

 ( Viburnum opulus) ; while the Bramble (Rulms fruticosus) 

 perseveringly asserts its claim to a favourable notice in this 

 competitive flower show of the hedges. 



In July the Bitter Sweet or Woody Nightshade (Solanum 

 Dulcamara), makes its appearance in a moist part of the 

 hedge-row. The flowers, which are in clusters, are of a dull 

 purple hue, relieved by two green spots at the base of each 

 segment, while the yellow anthers meet in a point at the 

 top. The egg-shaped leaves are a dull green. Altogether 

 it is a peculiar looking plant, and is said to be poisonous in 

 every part of it. In some places it is called Felon-wood. 



As the ummer advances the floral display of the hedges 

 begins to wane ; and, gradually, the leaves turn brown, or 

 yellow and sere ; and unmistakable signs of decay begin to 

 manifest themselves. These losses are partly compensated for 

 by the varied mellow-tinted foliage, and by the store of rich 

 fruits which present a tempting feast to the wayfarer. 

 Even as early as the end of July we can gather the dainty 

 Strawberry; in August enjoy the delicious Wild Raspberry; 

 in September and October we have an abundant supply of 

 the glossy berries of the Bramble, and these months too 

 bring to perfection the brown clusters of the Hazel, and the 

 black fruit of the Bird Cherry and the Sloe. Thus 



