A PARADISE OF FERNS. 



dense tufts ; but it is to be found in perfection 

 only in very moist and shady situations. 



Now, as we go downwards, we pass over a tiny 

 stream crossed by a rude bridge ; and here over- 

 head the tangled bushes again meet, throwing on 

 bridge and stream a dark shadow* Down almost 

 by the water's edge, revelling in the moist and 

 shady situation, are growing innumerable little 

 tufts of the Scaly Spleenwort (Asplenium ceteravh). 

 The Scaly Spleenwort is, in truth, a charming* 

 little plant. The upper surface of the simple 

 saw-edged frond is dark green ; its texture is like 

 velvet. Underneath, the surface of the frond is 

 completely swathed in rich brown scales, where, 

 snugly hiding, lie the spores. 



Here, as we reach the end of this green lane, 

 the singular grace and the exceeding loveliness of 

 the scene appear to blend in one harmonious 

 whole. We lean over the rude parapet of the 

 bridge. Trees above us cast cool shadows upon 

 all round and underneath them. Gurgling and 

 sparkling along below us the brook babbles on its 

 way ; now foaming in playful fancy over its tiny 

 stones ; now smoothly resting in mimic pools ; 



89 



