120 IN A GLOUCESTERSHIRE GARDEN 



very pleasant study ; indeed, no one can venture on 

 a record of the life of a tree or shrub who does not 

 as much study its anatomy in the winter as he does 

 the leaves, flowers, and fruits in the summer. The 

 anatomy of trees is a constant marvel, and to study 

 it thoroughly will teach many unexpected lessons : 

 to mark the different angles and thicknesses of 

 the branches, varying in every tree according to the 

 necessities of each family and each species, and vary- 

 ing in trees of the same species according to their 

 position as regards light and soil and prevailing winds, 

 will require many a winter's study. And in Novem- 

 ber, when the trees are bare of leaves, is the time for 

 that pruning of trees which is one of the pleasantest 

 labours of the garden, and one of the most healthy ; 

 but it is an art that is not soon learned, and in 

 no branch of gardening does experience and steady 

 observation of the wants and growth of trees produce 

 better results. A tree that has been well looked after 

 from its infancy will show a vigour both in girth and 

 height over neglected trees that will be a surprise to 

 many, and a good object-lesson to those who think 

 that everything may be left to nature. 



Another very pleasant November work is the carry- 

 ing out alterations in the garden, including the re- 

 moval of all sorts of plants. I am in the habit during 



