138 VITAL FORCE OF THE PLANT. 



Taking into account all these considerations, we are doubt- 

 ful whether any value can be placed on the theories just 

 enunciated. Undoubtedly, physical causes, such as capil- 

 larity, heat, evaporation, atmospheric pressure, electricity, 

 have a certain marked and constant action. But this 

 action is here complex; it is found combined with a new 

 force, whose effects constitute precisely the profound differ- 

 ence which exists between the massive mineral framework 

 of the globe and the transitory beings peopling its surface. 

 It matters little whether we call it vital force, or otherwise; 

 sufficient that it exists. We must, therefore, allow for its 

 influence when endeavouring to explain the varied move- 

 ments of which plants, as well as animals, may be the seat. 



A. PLANTS. 

 The Daisy (Bellis perennis). 



" Wei by reason men it call maie 

 The daisie, or els the eye of the dale." * 



Among all the treasures of the floral world, that which 

 should excite in each of us the tenderest emotion, and most 

 readily stir up in our minds thoughts too deep for tears, is 

 the Daisy, that favourite of our innocent and happy child- 

 hood. 



Ah! would we were now as content with simple joys as 

 in the days when that wee, modest, crimson-tipped flower 

 was to us a beauty, a prize, and a charm ! 



* Chaucer. 



