36 \VILU FLOWERS OF THE PACIFIC COAST. 



such a home with such surroundings ? Just back of the house 

 was the "Arroyo," and I was told it was a perfect garden of 

 wild flowers. A path well trod by lovers of Nature led me 

 down to the very bed of the river. 



It was here I found the peony, a bush here and there, the 

 branches lying on the ground. In growth they resemble the 

 cultivated peony ; the flower, as you see, being much smaller, 

 but extremely rich in color. 



There is something about the blossom of the wild peony 

 that reminds me of a human face, and to this one with its face 

 turned toward me, I felt like apologizing for disturbing it. 



On my walk back to the house I passed many varieties, 

 and marked the spot of those I wished to secure, and promised 

 each an early visit. 



The sun had set long before I reached the ridge, and near 

 the top I found my friend anxiously waiting my return. 



"You have remained out too late," she said. "The Arroyo 

 is a dangerous place after the sun has disappeared from it." 



"Tramps!' I asked in alarm. 



"Oh! no, no tramps, but those that tramp in it are in 

 danger from the damp chilly air that takes the place of the sun- 

 shine. But come, a good hot cup of tea will make you all right." 



Every moment spent in and near this beautiful place was a 

 delight to me. The days were too short, was the only regret I 

 had while here, but every hour from the moment the sun made 

 its appearance until it disappeared, found me, like the lovely 

 flowers, enjoying its rays, and like them I thrived on it. 



