148 PAPA'VER RHOS'AS EXAMINED. 



In the other species, " the capsules are smooth, 

 " and shaped like an urn, broader at the top than 

 " at the bottom ; the stem bears several flowers, 

 " and is hairy ; and the hair on the fruit stalks, 

 " instead of lying close down, spreads or stands 

 out." 



EDWARD. 



I did not know that poppies had any fruit ; but 

 you speak of their fruit stalks. What are they ? 



MOTHER. 



In all plants, the part that contains the seed is 

 called the fruit, whether it is fit to be eaten or 

 not ; and the fruit stalks are those which support 

 this part. Now, can you tell me, which of 

 the descriptions that I have just read suits 

 your poppy ? 



EDWARD. 



The last, I think : because the seed-vessel is 

 broader at the top than at the bottom, and the hairs 

 stand out from the fruit-stalks. 



MOTHER. 



Very right : our plant is of the last species that 

 I have mentioned, Papa'ver Rhre'as, common red 

 Poppy; one of the most troublesome weeds the 

 farmer meets with among his corn, for it is more 

 difficult to destroy than any other. The seeds will 

 lie for a very long time in unploughed land with- 



