that it is beneficial to a great degree in proportion as 

 it is agreeable ; that of two descriptions of exercise, 

 that is by far the most salutary which is taken with 

 the keenest relish. Compare the resolute dyspeptic 

 accomplishing his measured walk or ride, with the 

 same dogged pertinacity, with which he would pre- 

 pare himself for a surgical operation, with the florist, 

 culling his plants, in our fine woods, or cultivat- 

 ing them in his neat garden, while hour after hour 

 glides by unmarked, and the sun goes down upon 

 him in the midst of his interesting labors. Compare, 

 I say, these individuals, and then ask, if you can, 

 seriously, which is pursuing the shorter road to 

 health and cheerfulness. 



It is not, however, in our brilliant though short 

 spring, our blazing summer, or our glorious autumn, 

 that the charms of this art are most deeply felt, but 

 amid the rigors of our stern though splendid winter. 

 It is then, when the whole vegetable world is hushed 

 in dread repose, — when the earth is covered with a 

 sheet of ice, as with a plate of burnished steel, that 

 Horticulture proves herself a true friend to her faith- 

 ful votaries. It is then that she goes with them to 

 their dwellings, there to diffuse her soothing and 

 enlivening influence, while all without is wild and 

 desolate. Who would not court the visits of such 

 an inmate ? Who but would delight to give her her 

 appropriate and honorable place at the fireside or the 

 window ? 



This art is, however, something more than a mere 

 passing amusement. It well deserves to be cherished 

 in our country, for the auspicious influence which it 



