** ,fe 





THE FIRST BLOSSOM 



March loth 



HAT is the first token of returning spring? 

 It is now almost the ides of March. The 

 winter still rules the landscape, and the fact 

 may yet be emphasized by a snow-storm or a bliz- 

 zard, for the almanac gives Boreas a few days more 

 for mischief. 



But the breath of spring is in the air, even though 

 the meadows be still white with lingering snows. Al- 

 most any day now we may listen confidently for the fine 

 prophetic hum of the first honey-bee. For the bees 

 have felt the vernal prophecy, and have heard whispers 

 of sweets and blossoms in the air. Here is a little 

 swarm of them sipping at the dark stain of sap on the 



