FEBRUARY 307 



and the propagation of chrysanthemums goes on 

 apace, for the cuttings raised now will probably 

 be our best when autumn comes. They will be 

 good strong plants without a suspicion of drawing, 

 for their treatment will be entirely on the cold 



system. 



" February fill dyke 

 Either with black or white." 



Feb. 14. So the old saw goes, and this year 

 it is with deep white snow that our ditches are to 

 be filled and our springs replenished. It has come 

 suddenly, and the birds, misled by the winter's early 

 mildness, have kept no store of berries to sustain 

 them in days of famine. They come round the 

 house in whirling crowds, begging for relief which 

 is freely given them, and showing their gratitude 

 by increasing confidence and friendliness. It is 

 amusing to watch them every morning when the' 

 bird-table and tray have been laden with good things, 

 and the giver has retired and left them to the feast. 



The table happens to be placed on part of the 

 property belonging to the robin who lives under 

 the elm tree, and he takes a proprietary interest in 

 it apart from his appreciation of the food upon it. 

 I believe that every robin in a garden has a portion 

 of ground which he regards as his particular 

 preserve. This is undoubtedly the case with 

 our little birds. When crumbs are placed on the 

 table the robin of the elm tree flies down to it, and 

 walks round in a menacing way. Sparrows may 

 come and eat, but no other robins may approach ; 

 if any is foolhardy enough to do so, he is driven 

 away with vicious pecks and dashes. Presently, 



