THE WATER-LILY. 243 



has passed, continue to preserve their freshness throughout the 

 winter. 



But some authorities are not content with the yellow ama- 

 lyllis, and put forth as the true " lily of the field," either the 

 narcissus, or the golden lily, or the stately crinum, according 

 to their several tastes. 



Not connected with these flowers by any botanical relation- 

 ship, and surpassing them all in beauty, is the Water-lily 

 (Nymphcza alba), whose large round leaves and full white 

 blossoms are the glory of so many of our secluded lakes 

 and quiet streams. Everybody knows old Izaak Walton's 

 quaint eulogium on the strawberry : " Doubtless God could 

 have made a better fruit, but doubtless He never hath." In 

 like manner I am inclined to say : " Doubtless God might 

 have created a fairer flower, but doubtless He never hath." 

 Alas ! like most things rare and beautiful, its existence is very 

 brief! pluck it, and straightway it vanishes, like a poet's 

 dream, the moment he attempts to realise it. 



It is sometimes asserted of our wild water-lily that it retires 

 below the surface of the stream shortly after noon, remaining in 

 the liquid depths during night, and rising again into the light 

 of day at early dawn. Those who are acquainted with the 

 haunts and habits of these beautiful flowers know that this is not 

 strictly correct, as they may often be seen, " by the pale moon- 

 light," lying folded above the water. It is not impossible, 

 however, that some may sink ; and certain it is, that as the sun 

 sets they close their silver vases. 



