xxiv LETTERS TO MARCO 163 



down from the leaves. Small flies, etc., 

 get drowned in these receptacles, but I do 

 not know whether the plant is of a carnivor- 

 ous character and derives any benefit from 

 their carcases. The backs of the leaves of 



First and Second Stage of Bloom of Teasel. 



the teasel have small, recurved, hook-like 

 spines up the rib, which, in a state of nature, 

 serve to moor the tall plant amongst its 

 surroundings. 



You know, no doubt, the shape of the 

 teasel head, but perhaps were not aware that 

 the centre and largest head is not the tallest ; 



